While Gulliver was sleeping, the minions of oppression and insanity took captive the minds of the world, sowing seeds of division under the guise of progress. What began as whispers of compassion and inclusion turned into a roaring tide of ideological insanity more potent than any religious fervour, sweeping through institutions, media, government and education with alarming speed. Looking back, the last 10-15yrs have been wild!

The momentum of this “woke mind virus” grew as complacency and fear silenced dissent, and the line between truth and falsehood blurred. In its wake, objective reality was discarded, replaced by a narrative that weaponised virtue and demanded conformity. Like a contagion, it spread unchecked, exploiting the human desire for justice while leading many into the very chains they sought to break.

Then Covid happened... It was like humanity’s collective consciousness looked in the mirror and there the physical manifestation of what was happening in the spirit over culture for years, returned the gaze of society. It carried the same authoritarian spirit of silencing dissent, weaponising virtue, demanding conformity and shutting people up. Masks were the symbol of compliance and control, a visible reminder of the invisible forces shaping our lives that many showed their allegiance too unknowingly. They covered not only our faces but, symbolically, our voices—muting expression, individuality, and connection. Fear became the currency of the day, and the divisions that had quietly simmered beneath the surface erupted into full view. In the name of safety, society surrendered freedoms, and the once-subtle push toward uniformity now became a relentless march.

People, weary of constant restrictions and increasingly polarised rhetoric, started to question the cost of compliance. The stifling grip of a one-size-fits-all culture began to feel suffocating, and a yearning for individual expression and open dialogue resurfaced.

As the pandemic’s grip loosened, so too did the hold of the authoritarian mindset that had flourished in its wake. What follows is a slow but steady awakening across the world—a return to reality and reason. The pendulum began to swing back toward the centre, as individuals and communities rediscovered the value of personal freedom, nuance, and diversity of thought. Conversations, once hushed or restricted, found new life. People were no longer willing to be boxed into a binary worldview that demanded absolute conformity or complete opposition. A new cultural shift, one that embraced complexity, debate, and genuine disagreement, began to take shape.

Giants were about to fall. This didn’t happen in a vacuum, nothing ever does. We owe the societal awakening and revival of free speech, critical thinking, along with the resurgence of healthy debating culture, to a few absolute key people over the last decade. I would like to highlight a few pivotal players.

Brilliant minds like Jordan Peterson spearheaded a countercultural movement in the face of a woke mind virus spreading like wildfire. Particularly, Peterson woke up the young lions, our seemingly lost and confused boys, and inspired a generation of young men (and women) to get up, clean up, and grow up into fighting for truth and righteousness—challenging the status quo and embracing responsibility in a world that wanted to devalue all that is noble. Like a modern day Issachar and father figure, Jordan’s voice sounded the clarion call in the wilderness for society to wake up and speak up.

Around the same time Milo Yiannopoulos, another key voice of the day with his flamboyant style and unapologetic provocations, became a lightning rod for the clash of cultures. Known for his defiance of political correctness and for challenging sacred cows, Yiannopoulos attracted both scorn and adoration. His embrace of contrarianism, especially in academic and media circles, made him a key figure in the counterculture movement. In the aftermath of the so-called “war on free speech,” he represented a fearless resistance to the cultural gatekeepers, often using satire and humour to disarm the forces that sought to cancel him. Humour is a deadly weapon.

Across the ocean, Nigel Farage’s leadership in the Brexit movement embodied a spirit of defiance against the global elite. His fight for national sovereignty and individual freedoms reflected the larger battle for autonomy in an age of globalism. Farage’s unapologetic stance against the European Union and his advocacy for the will of the people made him a figurehead of a broader populist movement that sought to challenge the centralised power structures that had eroded national identities and freedoms.

Ben Shapiro, shot into the spotlight with his razor-sharp logic and unapologetic commentary. He became a prominent figure in the fight against the cultural left. Known for his fast-talking, quick thinking, fact-based approach, Shapiro’s ability to dissect arguments and challenge leftist ideologies made him a favourite among conservative youth. His platform became a rallying point for those who felt marginalised by the growing wave of political correctness, and he earned a reputation for engaging in debates that many others feared to touch. He shaped intellectual fierceness, imparted courage and stood up for the voice of reason.

In the media mountain Joe Rogan, became a central figure in the cultural wars. Another unconventional and controversial warrior. His long-form, unscripted interviews with a diverse range of guests—spanning from scientists and politicians to comedians and activists—have redefined how conversations are conducted in the public sphere. Rogan’s willingness to entertain controversial ideas, challenge conventional wisdom, and allow open discourse on topics often deemed taboo has earned him both praise and criticism.

As mainstream media continued to be dominated by political correctness and cancel culture, Rogan drew large audiences of people frustrated by the increasingly controlled nature of the media landscape.

Another player in the media mountain, Tucker Carlson also became a central figure in the cultural awakening, challenging the ideological forces of the woke mind virus. Bravely on primetime television, he unapologetically critiqued political correctness, cancel culture, and government overreach, making his nightly broadcasts a rallying point for free thinkers. There was almost nothing other like it on mainstream media at the time. His sharp wit, fearless commentary, and willingness to host marginalised voices exposed the hypocrisies of cultural and political elites, inspiring millions to question prevailing narratives. Mainstream media had a meltdown and after parting ways with Fox News, Carlson took his fight for truth to the town square, launching a new show on X (formerly Twitter). Free from corporate constraints, he has continued to challenge the establishment, solidifying his place as a vital independent voice in the push for free speech, critical thought, and cultural renewal.

More recently Matt Walsh, through his work in media, particularly with projects like What is a Woman? and Am I Racist?, carved out a space for challenging the dominant narratives around gender and race in the entertainment mountain. His documentaries sparked crucial conversations on these topics, forcing society to reckon with uncomfortable truths. Slowly he cracked open people’s cognitive dissonance and intellectual dishonesty and revealed the depth of brainwashing woke culture has cultivated in society. It was eyeopening to watch how people responded. Like Rogan, Walsh’s direct approach and willingness to ask tough questions not only shaped the cultural discourse but also highlighted the media’s role in controlling public perception. His influence has been underrated but pivotal in reorienting public dialogue on some of the most contentious issues of our time. Many young creators, influencers, and media personalities tapped into the slipstream of momentum Walsh was building with his brash boldness. Let’s not forget that Elon Musk personally promoted the documentary What is a woman? and gave it platform on X, stating, "Every parent should watch this." This endorsement contributed to the film amassing over 170 million views within a single week, marking a notable milestone in X’s expansion into long-form content distribution. Walsh’s success proved that there was a significant audience eager for content that defied the mainstream narrative, fuelling a new generation of YouTube content creators to carve out their own space in the media landscape, where free speech, honest inquiry, and critical thinking were once again pursued.

Her stance on gender and sex provoked a furious backlash from the woke left, yet her courage in the face of cancel culture made her a beacon for many who had grown weary of a world where silence was the price of conformity. Rowling saw the spell being cast over the minds and hearts of people and her journey became emblematic of the fight for intellectual freedom—showing that even the most celebrated of voices could be silenced if they dared to oppose the prevailing narrative.

Let’s not forget how on university campuses across the US, Charlie Kirk played a transformative role in reshaping student culture and empowering young conservatives through his organisation, Turning Point USA. Recognising the left’s dominance in academia, Kirk set out to disrupt the echo chambers of higher education by advocating for free markets, free speech, limited government, and traditional family values. He provided a platform for students to challenge the prevailing left-wing narrative and encouraged them to debate and push back against the ideological indoctrination happening on campuses across America. In many ways Kirk is the activist evolution of what Jordan Peterson started in his defiant vocal opposition to Canada's Bill C-16 which primarily took place on campus through a series of university lectures and interviews. His influence has helped to foster a new generation of students who are unafraid to question authority, defend free speech, and advocate for conservative principles in the classroom and beyond.

His outspoken criticism of government overreach, particularly during the pandemic, and his embrace of free speech on platforms like X positioned him as a modern-day rebel who’s awakening journey was on display for all to see. Musk set his sights not only on reshaping the automotive and space industries but also on transforming the cultural landscape of the digital age. The diminishing light of free speech, free thought, and citizen discourse suddenly found a new beacon in the chaos as Musk’s star began to rise. With his acquisition of Twitter, the platform became a vital space for unfiltered dialogue, where ideas could be exchanged without the looming threat of ideological gatekeeping. By challenging the entrenched power structures and pushing back against censorship, Musk ignited a resurgence of individual expression, allowing for a more vibrant, democratic marketplace of ideas. His bold stance against centralised control offered hope that the public’s voice could once again rise above the noise, restoring balance to a media landscape predominantly shaped by political and corporate elites.

Seismic shifts in governance and public policy began to rumble again in the buildup to Trump’s run for a second term. Trump spearheaded an uprising that defied conventional political norms. People were tired of being gaslit, bullied and controlled and Trump’s victory marks yet again a turning point in global politics, challenging entrenched elites and amplifying the voice of the everyday citizen.

Suddenly, clear as day, these violent acts served as a brutal reminder of the growing animosity towards conservative ideals. Rather than deter him and his supporters, these attacks intensified collective resolve and solidified Trump’s role as a symbol of resistance against an increasingly hostile political establishment. Trump’s response to these attempts was nothing short of defiant. In the face of real danger, he became a symbol of brave resistance against what many saw as an increasingly authoritarian system, where conservative views were not only vilified but physically attacked. The assassination attempts on his life ignited a sense of urgency within the conservative base across the globe, uniting people around the cause of preserving free speech, personal freedom, and the fierce defence of democratic values that are under siege.

Trump’s first presidency laid the groundwork for a new generation of political leaders who carry forward his spirit of disruption and fearlessness. During Trump’s loss against the Biden administration, figures like Vivek Ramaswamy and J.D. Vance have emerged as rising stars in the political landscape. Suddenly we saw fresh energy and intellectual rigour rise up into the conservative movement. Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur and political commentator, wrote the book Woke, Inc.: Inside Corporate America's Social Justice Scam. Like Trump this billionaire businessman had enough of the prevailing insanity. Published in 2021, the book critiqued the rise of corporate activism and the growing influence of woke ideologies in the business world. Vivek’s entrepreneurial background and bold articulation of conservative ideals, has proven to be a dynamic voice for free markets, individual liberty, and the reassertion of American values. His willingness to tackle contentious issues head-on has made him a key figure in reshaping the political narrative, particularly among younger generations seeking authenticity and bold vision for the future. It’s no surprise he will now lead the Department of Government Efficiency alongside Musk.

Similarly, J.D. Vance, the author of Hillbilly Elegy, has transitioned from cultural commentator to political leader, embodying the ethos of Trump’s populist movement while adding his own perspective on the struggles of middle America. Vance’s focus on revitalising forgotten communities and challenging corporate overreach aligns with the broader cultural push toward reclaiming agency and rejecting globalist conformity. His rise in the political arena signals a shift toward leaders who prioritise pragmatic solutions and a deep connection with the people they represent. Both Ramaswamy and Vance showed incredible intellectual prowess and a backbone of steel throughout their respective political pursuits.

Don’t be fooled thinking the conservative wave is only confined to the United States. Across the globe, the government mountain is being reshaped with an overwhelmingly conservative slant in a year where over half of the earth’s population made their ways to voting stations. In Europe, leaders like Giorgia Meloni in Italy have championed national identity and traditional values, pushing back against the tides of progressive globalism. Her ascent to power represents a broader European trend of rejecting centralised bureaucratic control in favour of sovereignty and cultural preservation. Similarly, in nations like Hungary and Poland, leaders such as Viktor Orbán and Mateusz Morawiecki have taken strong stands against the erosion of national values, prioritising policies that reflect the will of their people over external pressures. Across the pond in South America, Javier Milei in Argentina has emerged as a prominent figure fearlessly challenging the left-wing establishment, advocating for free-market reforms and confronting the long-standing populist policies that have devastated the nation's economy.

In Central America, the president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, has also been a powerful force in the conservative wave, implementing bold policies to combat crime and corruption, while pushing for economic reforms that prioritise his country's sovereignty and security. Bukele’s stance on social issues and his refusal to bow to international pressure has made him a leader admired by many conservatives worldwide and the incredible fruit that his country is reaping, speaks for itself.

So, as Gulliver lay bound by the forces of control, David’s mighty men rose, undeterred by the oppressive storm that had swept through society.

They prepared for the moment when the giants of cultural conformity would fall. Just as David’s men fought with specialised skills honed in adversity, these modern-day warriors sharpened their intellects and their voices, ready to strike at the heart of falsehoods and champion truth. With each voice that rose in defiance—be it Jordan Peterson, Milo Yiannopoulos, or Tucker Carlson—they laid the groundwork for a resurgence of reason and liberty. They stood against a force that demanded uniformity and conformity, much like the giants of oppression that David’s men fought against to reclaim the promised land. Through courage, warriors of this cultural war began to tear down the walls of ideological tyranny. The voices that dared to question the status quo—whether through satire, sharp logic, or fearless defiance—became the slingshots that struck at the giants, slowly toppling their false narratives and restoring the rightful place of reason and freedom. In many ways this cultural awakening is the reclamation of the promised land—a land where truth and diversity of thought reign, where freedom is no longer a captive of oppressive forces, and where the righteous rise once again to lead and it comes at a great personal cost.

Nehemiah led the Israelites in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem amid intense opposition. His steadfast determination, strategic leadership, and reliance on God’s guidance exemplify how restoration and revival can occur even in the face of overwhelming odds. Just as Nehemiah rallied the people to rebuild and defend their heritage, today’s leaders are working to restore the foundations of freedom, sovereignty, and integrity. We need the cultural apostles and their accompanying prophets to rise up and do the work.

Perhaps now, more than ever, we need prophets to speak out and hold kings and society to account. Gone are the days when prophets can hide in playpens and pander to the needs of the immature in the church only. The time for changing diapers is over—the world is desperate for redemption. The proverbial breakthrough you are waiting for sits on the other side of the weapon you are willing to wield in battle. Facing the prophets of Baal, Elijah boldly challenged the prevailing narrative and demonstrated the power of divine truth. This moment of reckoning mirrors the cultural awakening we see today, where the false ideologies of our time are being confronted and exposed and lo and behold, the Lord is using the outcast mighty men in the marketplace and adding trumpets to their voices. There, as we have seen on the Olympic stage, these defiled deities attempt to feast and rule over God’s people, mocking the church and mocking Judaeo-Christian values, the bedrock of Western civilisation. The spirit of Elijah calls for the courage to stand for truth, even when outnumbered. Especially when outnumbered… just ask Gideon. It is a recurring theme in both scripture and contemporary culture and it is time for the sleeping giant to wake up its last slumbering members and push onwards towards God’s kingdom being established on earth.

2025 and beyond will hold it’s challenges. In many ways this time next year the world will look completely different. Time has proven itself a speeding train and with it mountains are rising and falling at record speed. Continental shifts are happening every single day and the map of the world now, will not be the map of the world tomorrow. The church is called to the government mountain being rebuilt, not by blind partisanship, but by individuals who recognise the importance of preserving liberty, fostering critical debate, and honouring the values that have shaped civilisations for centuries. We have to be willing to stand up and face opposition head on, outside of the comfort of the church walls. The pendulum, having swung so far in one direction, is now moving decisively toward balance. In its wake, a new generation of leaders is emerging—leaders who must be nurtured and guided to pave the way for a future defined by integrity, resilience, and authentic representation in every sphere of influence.

The ship’s rudder is in the hands of the righteous as long as the righteous is willing to take responsibility being at the helm.

 

 

 

 

 

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About Marissa Meyer

Marissa is a qualified graphic designer and illustrator with a love for writing. She has worked several years in the creative industry across the globe for various advertising and broadcasting agencies such as SBS in Australia.

She is a revelatory creative with a strong prophetic gift, and a profound and unique ability to communicate heavenly blueprints through her writing and her art. She currently serves on staff at Field of Dreams Church in Adelaide Australia and runs her own freelance design agency on the side.

She is also the founder of Water & Word and www.straya.rocks