If I hear anything bean soup about ability, I’m going to immediately counter with “if you have all of the resources to feed and water people and you are withholding it from people who cannot do that labor, that is ableist” when I say “everybody can become self-sufficient”, I’m talking about separating from the state as a community, not some individualistic hunger games/gathering blue type crap — however, looking for excuses to maintain the status quo is literally the function of the ego, so…
In reflecting on the discussion about ability and self-sufficiency, I’ve come to see how important it is to move beyond individualistic ideas of survival, like those portrayed in dystopian narratives, and instead focus on collective empowerment. The concept of separating from the state as a community emphasizes sharing resources and supporting each other, rather than leaving people to fend for themselves. For example, when we talk about being 'entitled to the' basics like food and water, it highlights a fundamental human right that shouldn’t depend on one's ability to perform labor. The temptation to label people as 'able' or 'not able' often comes from ignorance or an intention to maintain existing inequalities. In my experience, communities that organize around mutual aid and shared responsibility can create more resilient environments where everyone has access to essentials, regardless of their physical or mental capacity. This approach also challenges the ego-driven tendency to find excuses to maintain the status quo that excludes vulnerable members. By focusing on collective self-reliance, we open pathways to dismantle ableism and create systems where all members contribute in ways that suit their abilities while receiving support when needed. Practically, this means organizing food cooperatives, community gardens, and shared water resources, ensuring that no one is left out due to their ability status. Embracing this mindset has led me to participate in local initiatives that promote inclusive access and reject the idea that worth is measured solely by productive labor. It’s a radical shift from competitive survival to compassionate coexistence—a model every community can adapt to create equity and sustain itself outside traditional state frameworks.





















































































