Sovereignty Simplified: Freedom through Bitcoin and Graphene OS - #223
TL;DR - Sharing thoughts on why privacy matters, tools to get started and how Bitcoin helps.
Dear reader,
I've always been drawn to the idea of living life on my own terms, embracing freedom in its purest sense.
For me, this meant not just financial independence but a deeper, more profound form of sovereignty — a life where I could express my thoughts freely, grow as an individual, and protect my privacy from the prying eyes of the world.
In today's digital age, achieving such a sovereign life might seem like an uphill battle, but I've found a beacon of hope in Bitcoin, a revolutionary technology that combines financial freedom, privacy, and the principles of sound money.
Understanding the Concept of Living a Sovereign Life
To truly grasp the essence of a sovereign life, one must recognize its foundations: financial independence, personal freedom, and empowerment. It's about having control over one's destiny, unburdened by the constraints of traditional financial systems. Living sovereignly means embracing life's uncertainties with confidence, knowing that one's wealth and identity are secure.
In Florida (where I previously resided in), hurricanes - or the mention of a hurricane - is enough to cause panic at the grocery store. Knowing that I have my own food and water supply and ways to protect myself and my family, made it easier to whether the chaos that is hurricane season as we did not need to rely on the supply chain for our well being.
These days, living nomadically has shown me how location independence brings an entirely new world of personal freedom and empowerment by going to places which are willing to earn my business.
The Importance of Financial Privacy and Sound Money
In today's world, privacy is not just a luxury but a necessity. It's a shield that protects our thoughts, our growth, and our very essence. Financial privacy, in particular, plays a pivotal role in safeguarding our freedom of speech and expression. In an era where our every transaction is scrutinized, privacy becomes a cornerstone of personal growth and liberty.
Moreover, sound money is the bedrock of any prosperous society. It's not merely about the value of currency but the stability it provides. Imagine a world where your hard-earned money doesn't depreciate overnight, where your wealth remains intact, preserving your ability to plan for the future. That stability is the essence of sound money, a principle Bitcoin embodies.
Think back to the Freedom Convoy protests in Candan. During that time, having an opinion which ran contrary to the presiding government was enough to cause financial disruptions to many families across the country. I spent a couple of weeks helping my Canadian friends and business colleagues setting up Bitcoin wallets and showing them how to use it in order to keep their lives going.
Bitcoin as a Tool for Achieving Sovereignty
Bitcoin, the digital currency that needs no introduction, is the key to this sovereign life I speak of. It operates on a decentralized network, free from the influence of governments or financial institutions. Its pseudonymous nature ensures financial privacy, allowing transactions without the fear of surveillance.
With Bitcoin, I've witnessed firsthand the transformation it can bring to one's life. It's not just a currency; it's a symbol of hope, a pathway to financial independence. People around the world are embracing Bitcoin, using it to protect their wealth and, in turn, their freedom.
In my own journey living as a digital nomad in 2023; I’ve been able to continue business as usual without the need of a banking institution. I’m able to use Bitcoin just about everywhere - directly and indirectly - without having to ask a 3rd party for permission. With a regular bank, I would have had to disclose my whereabouts and request permission to use my bank card in certain countries. Not with Bitcoin.
Graphene OS: A Tool to Get Started with in 6 Simple Steps
When venturing into the realm of digital privacy, your first step toward a sovereign life might be securing your mobile device. A Google Pixel purchased with cash is recommended.
Graphene OS, a robust mobile operating system, serves as a sturdy shield, protecting your personal space in the digital landscape.
For newcomers, here are 6 simple steps to get started with Graphene OS:
1. Back Up Your Data
Before making any changes, ensure you have a complete backup of your data. This ensures that your essential information is secure in case anything goes wrong during the transition process.
2. Download Graphene OS
Visit the official Graphene OS website and download the compatible version for your device. Take your time to read through the documentation and familiarize yourself with the installation process.
Once your device has been flashed with Graphene OS, you’ll want to download and install Neo Store (and F Droid alternative) and Aurora Store (a way to access the Google Playstore without using Google).
The reason I choose New Store over F Droid is due in part to New Store showing the level of trackers or permissions some applications have which makes it simpler for users to find out which apps to accept and which to avoid.
3. Set Up User Profiles
One of Graphene OS's strengths lies in its ability to create user profiles. User profiles on Graphene OS act as complete separate devices. Think of it as owning several apartments within their own keys in a single building. The apps in each profile do not interact with each other, helping to prevent data leakage.
Set up separate profiles for different uses (personal, work, etc.) to compartmentalize your digital life and enhance your privacy.
How I’ve Set Up My Profiles:
Primary: Default Graphene OS apps.
Me: Where I keep most of my apps such as Proton mail, Drive and Calendar, my Bitcoin wallets, Standard Notes and others that do not rely on Google.
Work: Apps that I use for work and also rely on Google Play Services framework.
Google’d: Apps which also rely on Google Play Services such as Uber, Slack and Zoom.
Banking (not real label): A decoy label which contains Bitcoin wallets only.
4. Configure Privacy Settings:
Take the time to configure privacy settings within Graphene OS. Restrict app permissions, disable unnecessary services, and customize your device's privacy features to align with your preferences.
5. Wallets
Using free, open source software (FOSS) and non-Google based wallets such as Unstoppable Wallet and Samourai Wallet, Blixt Bitcoin Lightning Wallet and Monero Cake Wallet, but we’ll dive into this area a little deeper in another article.
Note: Of course, you are free to use whichever wallets make sense to you. These are just what I’m using presently.
6. Regularly Update and Back Up
Stay vigilant with updates. Regularly check for Graphene OS updates and security patches to keep your device secure. Additionally, continue to back up your data to ensure you don't lose important information.
By following these simple steps, you're not only safeguarding your digital identity but also taking a significant stride toward living a sovereign life, where your privacy is respected, your financial transactions are secure, and your personal growth is uninhibited by digital intrusions. Welcome to the world of digital freedom.
Note: Because many people are not familiar with Graphene OS, I’ve also done some work to harden the privacy on my iPhone as well.
Conclusion
As I continue my own journey towards living a sovereign life, I find solace in the knowledge that I am not alone. With every Bitcoin transaction, I am part of a global movement, a community of individuals who value privacy, sound money, and personal growth.
So, my fellow travelers on this path, let us embark on this journey together, armed with the knowledge of Bitcoin, the principles of sovereignty, and the power of Graphene OS. Let us live free, embracing the digital era with confidence, knowing that we have the tools and the spirit to protect our freedom and thrive in this ever-changing world.
Until next time,
Rare Passenger
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