i was supposed to be in the video, but the universe had other plans

In the grand tapestry of life, there are moments that seem destined to be captured, immortalized in pixels and soundwaves, only to be thwarted by the whims of fate. “I was supposed to be in the video,” a phrase that echoes with the weight of missed opportunities, unfulfilled expectations, and the unpredictable nature of existence. This article delves into the myriad reasons why one might find themselves uttering these words, exploring the philosophical, psychological, and even technological dimensions of this phenomenon.

The Philosophical Perspective: The Illusion of Control

At its core, the statement “I was supposed to be in the video” is a testament to the human desire for control and predictability. We plan, we prepare, we envision our place in the narrative, only to be reminded that life is not a scripted movie. The universe operates on its own timeline, indifferent to our aspirations. This realization can be both humbling and liberating. It forces us to confront the illusion of control and to embrace the beauty of spontaneity. Perhaps, in missing the video, we gain a deeper understanding of our place in the cosmos, a reminder that not everything is meant to be documented or shared.

The Psychological Angle: The Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)

The fear of missing out, or FOMO, is a powerful psychological force that drives much of our behavior in the digital age. When we say, “I was supposed to be in the video,” we are often expressing a deep-seated anxiety about being left out, about not being part of the collective memory. This fear can be paralyzing, leading us to overcommit, to say yes to every opportunity, in the hope that we won’t be forgotten. But in doing so, we risk spreading ourselves too thin, missing the essence of the moment in our quest to capture it. The video becomes a symbol of our insecurities, a reminder that our worth is not determined by our presence in a digital artifact.

The Technological Dimension: The Tyranny of the Algorithm

In an era dominated by social media, the video is not just a recording; it is a currency. It is a means of validation, a way to measure our social capital. The algorithms that govern our online lives prioritize certain types of content, often at the expense of others. When we say, “I was supposed to be in the video,” we are also lamenting the arbitrary nature of these algorithms, which can elevate one moment while relegating another to obscurity. This technological tyranny can be frustrating, but it also serves as a reminder that our value is not determined by likes, shares, or views. The video is just a fleeting moment in the digital ether, and our worth extends far beyond it.

The Social Dynamics: The Politics of Inclusion and Exclusion

The phrase “I was supposed to be in the video” also speaks to the complex social dynamics of inclusion and exclusion. In any group, there are hierarchies, alliances, and power struggles that determine who gets to be in the spotlight and who remains in the shadows. Being left out of a video can feel like a personal slight, a sign that we are not valued or respected. But it can also be an opportunity for reflection, a chance to examine our relationships and to consider whether we are truly part of a community that values us for who we are, not just for our ability to perform for the camera.

The Creative Process: The Art of Letting Go

For those involved in the creative process, the video is often the culmination of countless hours of work, a labor of love that is meant to be shared with the world. When we say, “I was supposed to be in the video,” we are expressing a sense of loss, not just for the missed opportunity, but for the creative vision that was never fully realized. But creativity is also about letting go, about accepting that not every idea will come to fruition, and that sometimes, the best moments are the ones that are never captured on film. The video is just one expression of our creativity, and there are countless other ways to share our gifts with the world.

The Existential Question: What Does It Mean to Be Seen?

At its heart, the statement “I was supposed to be in the video” raises an existential question: what does it mean to be seen? In a world where visibility is often equated with value, being left out of a video can feel like a denial of our existence. But perhaps the true measure of our worth is not in how often we are seen, but in how deeply we are understood. The video is just a surface-level representation, a snapshot of a moment in time. Our true essence lies in the connections we forge, the impact we have on others, and the legacy we leave behind.

The Spiritual Dimension: The Serendipity of the Unseen

From a spiritual perspective, the phrase “I was supposed to be in the video” can be seen as a reminder of the serendipity of the unseen. There is a certain magic in the moments that are not captured, in the experiences that exist only in our memories. These moments are often the most profound, the ones that shape us in ways we cannot fully articulate. The video, with its fixed frame and limited perspective, can never capture the full depth of our experiences. It is in the unseen, the unrecorded, that we often find the most meaning.

The Cultural Context: The Pressure to Perform

In a culture that values performance and visibility, the pressure to be in the video can be overwhelming. We are constantly bombarded with images of people living their best lives, and it can be easy to feel like we are falling behind if we are not part of the narrative. But this pressure can also be a source of stress and anxiety, leading us to prioritize appearances over authenticity. When we say, “I was supposed to be in the video,” we are also expressing a desire to break free from this pressure, to reclaim our sense of self-worth independent of external validation.

The Personal Reflection: What Really Matters

Ultimately, the phrase “I was supposed to be in the video” is a call to reflection. It invites us to consider what really matters in life, to question the importance we place on being seen and remembered. The video is just one moment in a lifetime of moments, and its absence does not diminish the richness of our experiences. What truly matters is how we live our lives, the connections we make, and the impact we have on the world. The video is a fleeting artifact, but our legacy is enduring.

Related Q&A

Q: Why do we feel so strongly about being in videos? A: Being in a video often symbolizes inclusion, validation, and recognition. It’s a way to feel seen and remembered, especially in a world where digital presence is highly valued.

Q: How can we cope with the disappointment of not being in a video? A: It’s important to remember that a video is just one moment in time. Focus on the experiences and connections that matter most, and recognize that your worth is not determined by your presence in a video.

Q: Can missing out on being in a video have any positive aspects? A: Yes, missing out can be an opportunity for reflection and growth. It can help you reassess your priorities, deepen your relationships, and appreciate the moments that are not captured on film.

Q: How can we balance the desire to be in videos with the need for authenticity? A: Strive to be present in the moment rather than focusing on capturing it. Authenticity comes from being true to yourself and valuing real experiences over curated images.

Q: What are some alternative ways to feel seen and valued without being in videos? A: Engage in meaningful conversations, contribute to your community, and cultivate deep, authentic relationships. These actions create a lasting impact that goes beyond any video.