The Fork in the Road

The Fork in the Road, 2025 Coin by Matthew Eisenman.

Matthew Eisenman writes, “It’s more than a gift; it’s a tangible piece of philosophy for our life in Black Rock City. It represents the two worlds we inhabit on the playa, and the constant self that journeys through them.
Side A: TODAY
This side is the world of the immediate, the tangible, the dusty earth beneath our feet. It is the quiet sunrise, the warmth of the sun on your skin, the simple, profound connection to the playa and the present moment. This in one’s element, grounded and mindful, walking through the landscape. This is the foundation of our experience, reminding us that in the here and now, we are whole. This is the spirit of “In Dust We Trust.”
Side B: TOMORROW
This side is the promise of the future, the vibrant, chaotic, and and the brilliant energy of Black Rock City at its peak but in the default world. It is the web of friendships and connections that fire like synapses across the world. This is one being surrounded by the beautiful, overwhelming complexity of human creation and ambition.
The Man
Notice that on both sides, the Man—is fundamentally unchanged. Their form is constant, their posture steady. This is the core of the story.
On the “Today” side, the Man is clear and distinct. But on the “Tomorrow” side, surrounded by the intricate static of the future, they are still there, but you have to look for them. It is easy for the Man to get lost in the busyness of Tomorrow, to feel their silhouette fade into the circuits and the noise. But they are never truly gone. They are a quiet anchor in the storm of stimuli, a reminder that beneath the dust or the dazzle, the core of who you are—your spirit, your essence—forever remains the same.

The Philosophy of the Choice
This coin isn’t meant to solve a dilemma. Its purpose is to affirm it. On the playa, we are constantly faced with choices: Turn left or turn right? Chase the art car or stay with your new friends? Go to sleep or wait for the sunrise?
The coin teaches us that there is no wrong answer.
Flip this coin not to decide for you, but to remind you that both outcomes are equally beautiful and valid.
* If it lands on Today, you are being called to embrace the serenity and perfection of the moment you are in.
* If it lands on Tomorrow, you are being called to ride the wave of energy toward the next great adventure.
Whatever you choose, you are exactly where you need to be. Each path leads to a necessary discovery. This token is a reminder that whether you find yourself in quiet contemplation or in the heart of the exhilarating chaos, you are home.”