This is more in general, I'm pointing this out everywhere I see it:
CleCub wrote:I simply meant that I'm sure it exists but is irrelevant because we're supposed to be there for something greater and common between burners. Self exploration and expression, making new connections, giving part of yourself back to the community and many more.
No, we're not supposed to be there for that. "We're" not there for anything specific, other than to be there. Every person comes for their own reason, and every one of those reasons is valid (as long as it doesn't involve hurting the person or property of another). That's the hardest part you're going to have to understand about BRC - it's a city of almost 70,000 people, and just like any city of that size there are 70,000+ different agendas, plans, desires, goals...
Personally, not to be harsh, but I could give a flying fuck about self exploration. I've got a pretty firm grip on who I am, and, while I keep growing & changing, I don't need to sit around in the dust trying to figure out how to express myself. Ask anyone who's met me - I have problems, but self expression isn't any of them. That said, one of my best friends spends part of his time there doing exactly that self exploration I have no need for. Guess what? We both love the event, and have a great time together. We just go find other things to do when he wants to be mystical and I want to be drunk. Both of our reasons for going are valid, all of what we do there are valid reasons for being there.
Like the others have said, I'm not saying any of this to scare you away or to be an ass. I would love you to have a fantastic time, and you can, but the least amount of expectation, and having your mind clear as possible before the event - outside of survival, is going to be the best way to have fun.
I intend to show up, set up my camp, sit down go exploring and see what happens next.
Fixed that.
One more prep thing: the playa is not "sand". Not even close. Think talcum powder that turns into incredibly sticky clay when wet. That dust will get into and on everything: food, drinks, bed, hair, clothes... be one with the dust.