Bill Hicks was woke AF. Also one of the best comedians of the 20th century, despite his relatively short life and career.
One detail that I'd nitpick is that "just a ride" doesn't mean meaningless! The fact is it means no meaning was predetermined or prescribed, that each human is free to creatively and freely explore and create meaning for ourselves!
At a deeper level, there is meaning in Awakening to the fact that life is just a ride. Taking the self or the ride too seriously are just about the only "serious" or "meaningful" mistakes a human being can make.
Thanks Jeff for sharing your journey! Namaste!