The more we can do for ourselves, the less the Octopus can make us do.

Like wear a "mask." Or get a Shot.

In order to buy food, for instance.

It's why I've gotten into raising chickens and ducks, the self-perpetuating food source. A small flock of 6-12 birds can provide enough protein – in the form of eggs – to keep you well-fed in the event you can't buy eggs (or other forms of protein) at the store, without wearing a Lie Rag or (perhaps soon) showing Proof of Jab. And unlike a carton of store-bought eggs, which are gone once eaten, your carton will refill itself on a daily basis. Probably you will end up giving away (or trading) the eggs you don't eat.

If you have a rooster – or a drake (male duck) – you will also have self-replicating meat. Or birds to trade/sell. Fresh/farm-raised chicken commands top dollar and fresh/farm raised duck commands surreal dollars. How's $40 per dressed bird sound? Not bad, if you raise/sell a half dozen extra every few months.