Exceptional.
I believe you could convince Narcissus to break his gaze with such frank remonstration.
It is true, we find something we believe is good, stimulating, compelling, and without a hint of self moderation or objectivity it has soon overridden us like a heedless chariot without a driver.
Your parallel between habitual behaviour and program is excellent; human minds are plastic, rearranged and reprogrammed continuously, the strongest binds are those that are reaffirmed. This is why confirmation bias is so effective. Establish, reaffirm, reward, repeat.
But style will never satiate our need for substance, "like water for chocolate"...
There is an irresistible craving for a meaningful dialogue with others, with reality, but sadly many settle for counterfeit and traffic in semblance than risk engagement in ventures with unknown outcomes, or consequence.
The digital extension of self can overtake the real self, but like any problem behaviour can all too quickly and easily overcome, obstruct, and finally obfuscate not only the original intent prima facie but also the true origin of all things one does: the self.
You make a very positive and persuasive appeal for leading a genuine existence beyond accolade and reward. All the better that it come from personal anecdote. After all, misery may love company, but so does jubilance.
Thank you for your candor, and for Wookguitarmination, I don't know how I existed contently before the knowledge of it.
^voted & resteemed.
Glad you like the post! Thank you.