Authors Note: Wow this took a while of straight working on it lol. Long Chapter. It is over 8,000 words nearly 9,000. So read and leave a review. I have nearly caught up to wear he is lol. I shall leave you to it.
Learning New Things About Yourself
Everyone settled down and the screen flickered to life.
Thomas: New Sanders Sides time now! [Heavy Metal Music] MY MOM ALWAYS COMES IN MY ROOM WITHOUT KNOCKING-
Everyone laughed.
Thomas: Oh my gosh, um... That was uh, that was an old college band I was in. Okay, here are here we go right here! Before we start the video, I'm starting a second channel!
"Wow I am going to be busy" Thomas smiled. Everyone laughed at him.
Joan: YAY!
Thomas: Oh my gosh, where did you come from? Where did you go?
"Where did you come from, where did you go, where did you come from cotton-eyed Joe" Joan sung to themselves. Everyone chuckled at him.
Thomas: I'm gonna talk a little bit more about that, but if you don't care you can skip to this time signature. It's called "Thomas Sanders..."
Joan: "And Friends".
Thomas: "And Friends", yes.
Joan: Not just me.
Thomas: No, more than just you. Which is cool. Friends, plural.
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: And it's where I'm gonna be posting our unscripted content from here on out, as well as our short video compilations *Sneezes*
Joan: Excuse me.
"Ok that was pretty cool." Terrence grinned. Everyone grinned agreeing.
Joan: So I'm sure you're all wondering what you're gonna see on this other channel, Well I'll show you! Oh my gosh, Awkward Adventures! Voices of Unreason! Tweet Tunes, we haven't seen that one in a little while! Oh, yeah, there's the reactions. Yeah, everyone watches those. We're also gonna try some new things out too-
Thomas: Give me my shirt back!
Joan: I'm sorry-
Everyone laughed.
Thomas: *ahem* On this channel, we're gonna continue posting scripted content like Sanders Sides and Cartoon Therapy and also our music, so if you only like our scripted content We won't be clogging your subscription feeds. If you only like our unscripted content, you can subscribe to our second channel. If you like both, you can subscribe to both, either/or/and!
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: Our goal is to increase frequency of posting for both channels. So if you enjoyed all that fun off-the-cuff stuff we did on this channel Be sure to subscribe to the new channel If you want to get more of that. Also stay tuned to the end to hear a special offer from this video sponsor Skillshare,
"Ooo you have a sponsor" Lilly grinned.
Thomas: as well as a look at a new piece of Sanders Sides merch. Ok. Sorry. I don't know- I don't know what this is doing, but that was some sort of weird promo. I'm not sure. Ok, new Sander Sides now!
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: How do you do everyone? So I figured we try something new for today. Rather than, deliver unto you a game of some kind or a silly escapade, you know those usual YouTube hijinks. I thought it might be nice to have an advanced, mature discussion about world events. So... The Israeli-Palestinian conflict- Woah, no, *sighs* woo I am sorry.
"Oh my god what's got into you know" Talyn wondered. Everyone shrugged not knowing.
Thomas: I went right out the gate with a Heavy subject matter that I have no idea about and maybe would have been irresponsible for me to talk about with any authority. Um Okay, I am sorry. To be honest, um I've just been in kind of a weird place because of something that happened recently
Patton: You see, Thomas had recently eaten an old chicken wrap that had gone bad and-
Thomas: NO! No, *nervous laughter* Patton that is Not what I was referring to.
Patton: Yeah, but-
Thomas: Yeah, no, that was bad but I was referring to that conversation I had the other day.
Patton: Yeah, with your friend about the awful dia-
Thomas: -LOGUE! That I had with another old friend I ran into last week
Every chuckled.
Patton: I'll shut up about the diarrhea.
Thomas: No- *groans*
Everyone laughed really hard and it took thirty-nine minutes to calm everyone down enough to for the screen to continue.
Patton: I can't help but feel like I did something.
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: So basically, I hadn't seen this friend in a while, and he asked me what I did nowadays and I told him that I'm... doing YouTube. And then came a question that was *sigh* all too familiar... "Yeah, but what do you ACTUALLY do? "Like for a living."
"How rude" Valerie frowned. Everyone agreed that it was quite a rude think to ask. Virgil shifted at the unease that these questions would cause his host.
Patton: Oh, yeah
Thomas: I know there's this whole stigma around social media and that it's looked at as just a hobby. And for many people it is! But you know for a lot of people it's their full-time gig but it's still not taken seriously. I'm not taken seriously. And you know, I've had people ask me that question millions of times before, but for some reason, this time... I don't know- it just stuck with me. And I don't know why. And it also doesn't help with this whole funk I'm in...
Patton: Aah!
Thomas: Not the good kind of funk.
Patton: Aww...
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: Yeah, and you know, it's not like I'm not being productive or not creating. It's just I haven't been satisfied. I don't feel content with my content.
"Nice use of graphics, very Sesame Street" Joan laughed. Everyone else joined in.
Thomas: There are all these little things that for some reason are getting to me, but I feel bad for feeling bad because... I don't know I just feel bad.
"Well that's not good" Thomas said. Everyone once again agreed.
Patton: Oh Thomas don't say that. Take it from me, that's not the way to work out your feelings.
Thomas: But what even are my feelings right now? None of it makes sense Nothing's different! Not that I know of. Okay, the only way I can describe it is, like, someone dumped a million billion... JILLION piece puzzle in front of me and You know, it's up to me to put it together to figure out why I'm feeling this way.
Patton: I can't even count that high...
Everyone laughed.
Thomas: Usually I go for the edge pieces first, you know, to help, like, frame it up and work inwards, but I can't find a frickin edge piece anywhere!
Patton: So... we continue looking for our first edge piece!
"Love Patton's optimism" Valerie grinned. Patton beamed.
Thomas: Yeah, well for now, my feelings have to wait, Because I have videos I have to make, even though nothing I create seems to be anything great.
Roman: How dare you criticize my work while also utilizing my rhyming skills!? That's like *slaps self-* slapping me in the face of my own beautifully manicured... SWORD! *Kiss*
Everyone laughed including Roman though he was blushing abit.
Thomas: Oh, hi Roman.
Roman: I'm sorry that everything I make isn't the Creation of Adam... Driver, with his perfectly huge pecs!
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: No, I'm not saying that I just- I don't know what I want.
Roman: Well, maybe we should just take some time to explore what it is we want.
Logan: You know; we can't do that Roman.
Patton: Logan! It's Patton!
Everyone chuckled at Patton's greeting to Logan.
Logan: Thomas made a commitment to regularly sharing content. He must be held accountable.
"That hand clapping gesture though" Terence laughed.
Roman: *Sigh* Is this really a time to be harping on due dates teach?
Logan: This isn't just about my regard for punctuality Although I am overcome by a titillating Tingly sensation whenever deadlines are met.
Roman: Eww.
Everyone chuckled.
Logan: If we continually fail to deliver videos in a timely manner or even fail to deliver them entirely, then... By the screams of snipped snakes at a Gorgon salon, why would the audience remain?... What?
Everyone laughed about Logan's confusion.
Roman: Oh, that's one of mine.
Logan: Ah...
Roman: Thank you—
Everyone chuckled.
Roman: I DON'T KNOW why the viewers would stick around! They certainly aren't doing it to hear you talking about them so belittlingly.
Logan: Belittlingly? How is treating their time as valuable belittling them. (To Viewers) Are you feeling belittled? Comment below if you're feeling belittled.
Roman: Don't bring them into this. How dare you! (To Viewers) Sorry, everyone! Pardon Logan's rude behavior... and make sure to ring that bell.
Everyone was laughing about the two sides arguing though Virgil was shrinking in his seat slightly and faking his laugh.
Logan: Oh, but YOU can talk to them.
Roman: Yes! To clear up your bad behavior.
Logan: MY bad behavior?
Roman: You know how are our arguments should always go, Logan? Logan: My bad behavior...
(Roman and Logan continue fighting) Patton: (To Viewers) Uhh, hey kids, daddy and daddy are just having a little discussion. That's all. Just focus on daddy and everything will be A-OK, here we go!
Thomas: Uh, Guys...
Patton: *Gasps* I know that face. My child is returning...
Everyone laughed. Anxiety blushed.
Virgil: *Grumbling*
Thomas: Virgil's here! It's not a party... Until I have anxiety.
Virgil: Thomas, you have got to do something about this!
Thomas: Do something about what?
(Roman and Logan still arguing)
Virgil: Are you kidding?
Everyone laughed at how exasperated onscreen Virgil was.
Thomas: But... this is what they always do. You know that. I mean, I thought they had it a little figured out a bit ago... They had that one debate that ended pretty well, and heck they sang a song together! Virgil: Yeah, I'm just gonna go out on a limb and say maybe - MAYBE - there's still some things to work out.
Everyone chuckled.
Patton: Right! Like confronting his feelings, which is what I was saying! Thank you, you shadowy, but angelic songbird!
Virgil: You got it, Pop Star.
Patton: *Deep gasp* (High-pitched) You gave me a dad-themed nickname!
Everyone chuckled loving the interaction between the two sides onscreen. Patton was beaming at how nice and open Virgil was being.
Thomas: Guys I don't know what you're talking about, this is pretty par for the course. Sure, it's not ideal. But I don't know if it's a big deal either.
Roman: Oh! And another thing- Oh, when did Virgil get here?
Virgil: Yeah, definitely not ideal.
Everyone chuckled.
Patton: I don't know, Thomas. Your heart AND your anxiety are telling ya the same thing here.
Logan: What, have you two formed some kind of team?
Patton: Only the bestest mostest dynamicist duoist- duo- in the entire Thomasphere!
Virgil: Got that right.
Patton: Ahhh!
Everyone laughed.
*Stretching noises*
Thomas: *Gags*
*Stretching noises*
Thomas: Guys! You gotta stop the stretchy-arm thing that's been happening lately. It's gross. Like, it's really gross.
Everyone chuckled while the sides blushed.
Virgil: Ahem, *finger snaps* Okay, listen up you two because I'm getting real tired of this. Roman- You get super insecure for some reason and, when that happens, the work suffers.
Roman: *Scoffs defensively* Wha-at?
"De-Nile isn't just a river in Egypt" Joan laughed. Everyone else joined in while Roman blushed.
Virgil: And Logan, you get upset anytime anyone throws a wrench into the system, or really any time things aren't working perfectly, so you start acting like a jerk and making everyone feel stupid.
Roman: I'm not insecure!
Logan: Well, someone has to bring you all into line.
Roman: Uh, bring ME into line?
Logan: I'm the one who ensures that order is maintained!
Roman: Without me you'd have nothing to maintain in the first place!
Everyone chuckled.
Logan and Roman: I'm the most important side here!
"Ooooooo"everyone said.
Thomas: Uh, so... was there a point to that Virge? Or...?
Virgil: Yeah, that this isn't normal. Look I'm not choosing sides here -
Patton: Sanders Sides!
Everyone burst into giggles at that. Yes giggles including the males.
Virgil: All I'm saying is that you both suck at what you do and I'm tired of having to keep lighting fires under your butts.
Logan: You what!?
Roman: I am not about to stand here...
Virgil: Look, it's no offence, it's just how I see it. (Roman: ...and be criticized by the dude who's always causing trouble.)
Logan: Do you have even the faintest idea how dangerous that is? I never even felt any heat!
Everyone was laughing so hard they fell out of their seat and onto the floor. Logan sat there confused on why they were all laughing at his line.
"Fire is dangerous I don't see what is so funny." Logan stated plainly looking at everyone else.
"It's a figure of speech that means to put pressure onto someone so that they get things done" Virgil laughed snorting slightly.
"Ahh I understand now" Logan stated.
It took them another thirty minutes to calm everyone down enough for the screen to start playing again.
(Roman: I will roll with your fire idiom, alright?)
Virgil: I'm being upfront, I'm shooting straight, even though I'm gay. (Roman: Fire can be a bad thing!)
Everyone laughed again.
(Logan: You're lucky that your acts of arson have seemingly settled themselves in the past...) (Roman: I mean... just watch the Jungle Book)
Everyone chuckled at the two sides reactions to what Virgil had said.
Thomas: See? Totally normal. (Logan: ... or you could have seriously hurt someone.) (Virgil: Do you guys think it's easy to stay calm with you two arguing all the time?)
Patton: Okay, okay! Calm Down Time!
Roman: Ooo.
Everyone chuckled as he was handed a Dora the Explorer colouring in book.
Patton: I think we all need a little bit of... Not Talking Time! *Nervous laugh* Alright... Here ya go, Logan.
Thomas: Wow. *Laughs* I mean, if only I could be settled that easil-
Patton: *Turns on TV*
Thomas: Ooh. (Parks & Rec opening is heard)
Everyone laughed at how easily they were all settled by Patton who smiled proudly at himself.
Virgil: I like the one with the buttons - wait, no! We do this too much!
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: Yeah, I really should start watching a different show.
Patton: Yeah. (Turns off TV)
Virgil: No, I mean, yes, you should but I'm talking about this! This is part of the problem. We keep having this same problem, but instead of facing it and fixing it, we just... Find a distraction.
"Yeah that's not healthy" Lilly said.
Logan: Virgil's right. We argue and argue Until its utter chaos, then you distract yourself and forget about the issue until you're reminded of it again. We're trapped in a figurative Sisyphean nightmare.
Roman: You don't have to say "figurative" Logan. We know that we're not literally trapped in a nightmare. I drew a little outside the lines but I kind of like it.
Everyone laughed.
"That's pretty good though" Terence smiled. Everyone agreed.
Roman smiled proudly at the compliment.
Logan: Reality is uncertain to the point that many of history's greatest philosophical minds have spent their entire lives questioning it. A little clarity never hurt anybody.
Patton: Thomas, this cycle might be exactly what's causing these issues that are uptown funking you up.
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: Wait, so we're stuck in a loop?
Patton: You can say that again.
Thomas: We're stuck in a loop?
Patton: You can say that again.
Thomas: We're stuck in a loop?
Patton: You can say that agai-
Roman: Oh my gosh, I will kill both of you... with my bare hands! ...and this sword.
Everyone burst into laughter at the interactions onscreen.
Virgil: That just proved it. Loops are the worst.
Patton: Hey, some loops are fun! Fruit…
"I love Fruit Loops" Patton cheered. Everyone chuckled at his exuberant behavior.
Logan: Oh, he's done.
Thomas: Oh I thought he was gonna- gonna list them out.
Logan: No, that was his... that was his whole statement.
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: Okay. Well if I am in this so-called "loop"-
Roman: You were the first person to call it a loop.
Everyone laughed.
Thomas: How do I get out of it?
Virgil: The situation is pretty cut-and-dry, isn't it? You guys just cut it out.
Roman: I'm doing nothing wrong.
Logan: "Same-size".
Everyone burst into laughter except Logan who just sat there watching them confused.
"What?" he asked.
"Well bud, you kind mispronounced it. It's actually pronounced 'same-seese'" Virgil answered looking to the logical side.
"Ah thank you Virgil, that is most helpful" Logan answered giving Virgil the tiniest of smiles.
Virgil gave his crooked smile right back at him.
Thomas: Yeah, I gotta say I don't see anything wrong there either.
Virgil: Wha- you- I-
Thomas: Now, any other solutions on this whole loop-breaking thing?
Roman: Um...
Virgil: I mean, I don't know. I don't know. I guess, I don't know
"Ooooo, I think Virgil needs to calm down abit" Thomas said seeing the nervous energy of his onscreen anxious side.
Logan: If there's a problem, forego looking in my direction. If there were a line dividing this room into two segments, separating those of us who are potentially at fault and those of us who are certainly not at fault, you would find that I stand beyond the fault line.
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: Okay, Roman? Anything, bud?
Roman: You, uh, you always do your best thinking in the shower. So, uhh, get naked? Everybody get naked? Everyone, get-?
Virgil: No, stop. No one is getting naked.
Everyone laughed.
Thomas: Guys, come on! I'm apparently stuck in this endless cycle and I don't know why I can't just break it!
Patton: *Gasps* Thomas! That's it!
Thomas: What?
Patton: I don't know!
Virgil: Then why did you-
Patton: No, YOU don't know!
Roman: I'm confused.
Everyone chuckled.
Patton: Virgil said this problem is cut-and-dry, But then you said you don't know why you can't break the cycle! Maybe it's because this problem is the opposite of cut and dry!
Logan: Intact and wet!
Everyone laughed.
Patton: No, uh gosh words can be tough. Um... It's not just that you don't know, but it's that you don't know that you don't know. And that's okay! I mean, there's lots of stuff that I don't know that I don't know.
Virgil: What's he saying?
Thomas: I don't know.
Thomas, Roman, and Patton: THIRD BASE!
Everyone burst into laughter. It took them twenty-five minutes to calm down and let the screen continue.
Patton: Yeah, no, that's funny.
Logan: Oh, I think I do. Sometimes, we don't seek the answer to a question because we don't know that there's a question that we should be asking in the first place- Patton! You're... good. That was helpful.
Patton: Yee.
Everyone cooed at how sweet Patton is.
"Logan other people can be smart. You can give complements" Thomas grinned.
Logan nodded his head showing that he understood.
Thomas: Okay, so I need to be asking myself a question in order to get down to the bottom of this issue.
Roman: But what is the question?
Logan: That is the question, for now. The answer to that question is... the question.
Virgil: Guys, I'm barely following this.
Everyone chuckled.
Logan: Perhaps it's time to put on our cogitating caps.
Thomas: You mean our... figurative cogitating caps, right, Logan-? Nope, it's literal.
Everyone laughed at that.
Thomas: All right, cool. Well, keep me updated over there. All right, come on guys! We've got an issue. Something that I'm not aware of yet, something that may be unlocked with the right question. This is like... fundamental learning! How did I used to learn things?
Logan: Textbooks.
Virgil and Roman: Mistakes.
"Dramatic much" Joan snickered.
Patton: Puppets!
Thomas: What?
Logan: You know he always shouts out random things, Thomas, ignore it.
Virgil: Or we could hear him out. He's already made one valid point today.
"Virgil's sticking up for Patton again" cooed Valerie with a large smile.
Everyone smiled at the thought.
Roman: We're talking about hearing him out in regards to him shouting "puppets"?
Everyone chuckled.
Patton: Yeah, no really! Think about it! Thomas used to learn all kinds of new and helpful things from puppets when he was younger! Like how to count and his ABCs. Maybe, it'll be easier to work through issues when puppets are involved!
Logan: Fair enough, but he's an adult now. He's outgrown all of that-
Thomas: Patton, I love that idea.
Logan: *Under breath* What...
Everyone laughed again at Logan's reaction to what Thomas had said.
Roman: Uhh, I love it, too!
Virgil: Funny. You seemed so doubtful a second ago.
Everyone burst into laughter especially upon seeing the look that Roman gave Virgil. It took a couple of minutes to calm down again. The screen continued.
Logan: I guess I won't be needing this.
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: Okay. So how's this gonna work? Are we all gonna have our own puppets or-
Patton: *Kermit the Frog voice* YAAYYY!
Thomas: *Screams*
Everyone laughed at Thomas's screen including Thomas.
Patton: Oh! Sorry, kiddo, I- I just always wanted to do the old Kermit "YAY!"
Thomas: Oh. *Nervous laugh* Me too... uhm. That's what I was doing. You definitely didn't actually scare me.
Virgil: Ahem, you're a dork. (To Patton) Look at you.
Everyone chuckled at Virgil's line to Thomas.
Thomas: Yeah, cute puppet, Patton! It was- I was just a little caught off guard- just a little bit.
Patton: Thanks! Yeah, I figured we could do something simple and fun, you know, no need for anything too extravagant or-
Roman: All right, here's what I threw together. It's nothing special. Really. What do you guys think? Did I overdo the chin?
Everyone laughed at the chin comment.
Patton: Wow!
Thomas: Maybe. But you look great Roman!
Logan: Oh, no...
"Logan does not look happy about this" giggled Valerie.
Patton: Check out Jim Handsome over here, right?
Virgil: Woww... You are... unbelievably extra any chance you get.
Roman: Oh put a sock in it!
Everyone chuckled.
Patton: Hey Roman, fleece co- *laughs* Fleece Cumpleaños *laughs* Cause you're made of fleece?
Everyone chuckled at Patton's antics.
Logan: Is this- this is where- this is definitely where we're going?
Patton: *Gasps* Your turn Virgil?
Roman: Unless you'd rather be called Camilla the... Chicken
Thomas: Stop, Roman, only if he wants to.
"At least your giving them the choice this time" Lilly said happy that no side would be forced to change themselves again against their will.
Virgil: No, I-I do. If it'll help. *Sighs* Okay, how do I do this? *Strains* Well... there.
Patton: *Screams* So cute!
Roman: Sweet Coraline!
Patton and Thomas: Ba ba ba!
Everyone chuckled.
Virgil: Yes, I am a puppet. Here to take you on a magical journey through your feel-, oh this was a mistake. I can't do this.
"Aww poor Virgil" Valerie cooed. Virgil in the room was blushing at the cooing that the woman seated a few chairs away was saying.
Thomas: No, this is great! I really think this could work! Oh, Logan, you're up!
Logan: If by "up", you mean that I am not down to do this, you are correct.
Thomas: Wha-?
Roman: Oh, big surprise coming from No-Funsen Honeydew...DOO! Last second edition there. Made it, stuck the landing.
Patton: Aw, Logan, come on! We need you at the table if we're gonna be learning
Logan: Please. It has become quite clear that me co-signing all of your ridiculous antics is just a formality. When all of you decided on using puppets to address a serious issue, logic was already figuratively thrown out the window.
Roman: *Sigh* Again, you don't have to use the word "figuratively". We KNOW that you weren't literally thrown out of a window!
Logan: How? Have you been watching me constantly?
Everyone chuckled.
Patton: Don't assume, Roman! You know what happens when you assume? You make an "as" out of "su" and "me".
Everyone burst into laughter loving Patton's version of the saying.
Logan: *Sigh* Thank you Patton. I just don't want to concern anybody by suggesting I was thrown through a window. I wanted to communicate "Five by Five" that I'm "Five by Five".
Thomas: It's okay Roman. His intentions are there. I mean who does going above and beyond with clarity hurt?
Roman: Going above and beyond? *Laughs* More like going overboard. It's stupid.
Logan: *Intakes breath* *Screams*
Roman: OW! Oh my gosh, oh my gosh...
Patton: *Worried* Meep meep!
Everyone look wide-eyed and shocked at the normally relatively calm sides reaction to being insulted.
Logan looked really embarrassed about his on-screen actions knowing how bad and explosive his temper could be.
Roman: You hit me in the eye. You hit me in the eye, you freaking BOOKGERM!
Virgil: Geez, L, that was pretty rough.
Logan: I-I'm sorry. I don't know what that was. Maybe I should go.
Patton: NO! We are NOT about to leave it there, mister! We can't continue this convo...if you're gone-zo.
Everyone chuckled tightly at that.
Thomas: That's right! Look, Logan... You can be like one of those Sesame Street human friends!
Logan: Like Maria?
Thomas: Like Maria!
Logan: Okay. I mean, a more accurate comparison would be that you're our Big Bird and we're all your... Snuffleupagodes.
Thomas: Pre-1985! Before they canonically confirmed that Snuffleupagus wasn't imaginary!
Logan: Of course. *quietly* Clarity.
Roman: Hmph.
Everyone chuckled.
Logan: Okay, so... You're puppets. Care to explain to me how this is going to help?
Patton: Well, we could start by having an open and honest conversation about our feelings.
Thomas: *Deep breath*
Roman: Mmmm...
Virgil" *Grumbles*
Thomas: I don't think so.
Roman: Yeah, I don't like that.
Virgil: I'd rather go live in a garbage can.
Everyone laughed about Virgil's line.
Patton: No, really! This is important, guys! Thomas, you have to face your feelings head-on! Tell me... Do you ever feel like a paper bag?
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: Wh- I thought we were talking about a loop!
Patton: Well, how do you suppose we get out of the loop, Mister Looper?
Everyone laughed.
Thomas: Well, I guess I don't know… But I mean... like, what do I have to feel bad about? I mean, really. Like yeah, I feel iffy with my videos. So what?
Roman: *Sighs*
Thomas: Big deal. The "problems" I have wouldn't even exist without all of the incredible privileges I've received. I should feel lucky. I asked for this. So I- I don't feel like I have a right to feel this way, but-
Patton: Thomas, that's ridiculous. Now, should you count your blessings? Absolutely! Lots of people are way worse off!
Thomas: Oh.
Everyone burst into laughter at that taking a few minutes before calming down and letting the screen continue.
Patton: Yeah, I should not have said that as cheery as I did. But! You shouldn't feel guilty for having feelings. Sure, sometimes your feelings may not make sense, but it's not your feelings job to make sense! You just... experience them. And you have to do your best to deal with them.
Thomas: Well that...makes sense.
Patton: Not talking about them... is not dealing with them
"That's true" Lilly said.
Thomas: Yeah, but I don't even know where to begin talking about my feelings because I don't understand them right now.
Virgil: Maybe you won't have to understand your feelings if you fix the problem.
Patton: Well-
Virgil: Logan's gonna cool it with the deadlines.
Logan: What?
Roman: *Blows kiss* Thank you!
Everyone chuckled.
Virgil: Too much pressure.
Logan: Oh, I'm sorry. Except I'm not! Are the deadlines really the cause of that pressure, or is it- I don't know... Roman's inability to perform adequately!
Roman: *Gasp* No!
Virgil: Well, it's a little of that.
Roman: What!?
Logan: Exactly, boom.
Everyone started laughing at the interaction between the three sides.
Virgil: Look dude, doesn't it make sense to think you have something to do with this? The issue has to do with creating content AND his pride? That's a lot of you.
Roman: Well, pardon me...Vomedy Central, but when were either of you the experts on creative content? Who are you to criticize MY WORK?!
Virgil: Oh my gosh. What is up your butt?
Roman: ...AN ARM!
Everyone burst into laughter. It took fifty minutes to calm down because one of them would look into another's eyes and it would set everyone off laughing again.
Thomas: Okay. I think it's clear... that pointing fingers is getting us nowhere. So let's avoid that.
Patton: Agreed- Oh! Butterfingers!
Virgil: *Under breath* That's not what butterfingers means.
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: Logan, would it be fair to say that with all this arguing, order is not actually being obtained?
Logan: Perhaps we are in a state of disorder because no one is adhering to my instruction.
Thomas: Okay, okay! Well, okay! Well, I'm happy to hear you out then. What do you think we should do, Logan?
Patton: Yeah, Logan, help us out! What can you tell us about learning new things about ourselves?
Logan: Well, it all goes back to the point YOU made earlier, Patton. Asking the right question: Why?
Roman: That's right. Today's video is brought to you by the letter: Y!
Everyone started laughing again.
Logan: No, stop it. Stop. The QUESTION, why! W-H-Y: "Why"! So much of what you feel Thomas comes down to whether or not your actions are aligning with your goals.
Patton: *Gasps* Oh, I think I get it!
Logan: What?
Patton: Yeah! Why do you make videos?
Thomas: Because they're fun.
"Ok this is a cool affect" Thomas said with a smile. Remus was starting to get bored again and decided to watch the rest of the episode upside down. Deceit just quietly observed everything.
Patton: Why did you make it a job?
Thomas: So I can support myself and so I can try bigger things.
Patton: Why did your old friends question stick with you?
Thomas: Because... Because I always wonder if I'm doing the right thing for a living.
Logan: Okay, interesting! Elaborate on that, and nobody do any puppet bits!
Patton: Well, that was from The Electric Company-
Everyone chuckled.
Logan: Shh! Thomas!
Thomas: I don't know, I guess... you know, as far as I know, we get one life, and... I guess I have doubts about...whether or not I'm making the most of mine.
Logan: Okay, we're getting somewhere expand upon those doubts.
Thomas: Oh, man, uhh... I... I don't even know where to go from there.
Logan: I mean, if you asked me I could certainly list off several factors that very well could be contributing to your doubts... If you asked me I'd gladly share them.
Roman: Well, *sighs*.
Virgil: *Grumbling*
Everyone chuckled.
Logan: Just let me know if you want to hear what I have to say-
Virgil: *Unenthusiastically* Hey, Logan, can you list off some of those factors you mentioned?
Everyone laughed.
Logan: I'm glad you asked, Virgil! Firstly, there's no job security. I mean, people fall out of public favor very quickly.
Virgil: One. One cause of unease! *A la Count Von Count* AH AH AH!
Everyone chuckled again.
Logan: ...You're balancing a great deal of responsibilities. People have limits. Perhaps you can't continue at this pace indefinitely.
Virgil: Two! Two nervous thoughts! AH AH AH!
Everyone was laughing at Virgil's puppet bit.
Logan: Your work is inessential. Some may claim that they've been "inspired" by one thing you've said or another but who's to say they couldn't have found the inspiration they needed elsewhere.
Virgil: Three. Three depressing speculations... Ah ah ah...
Everyone chuckled.
Logan: And oh, oh! I can think of another one. No one takes you seriously!
Patton: *Gasp*
Virgil: Four... Four uncomfortable characters in this room... right now.
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: Logan, is that really what you think?
Logan: Thomas, I have held back my opinions for too long. And that's obviously not benefiting you. I refuse to withhold my perspective any longer. You need to get a real job.
Roman: Hey, yeah... like being a movie star!
Logan: No! A real job!
Patton: *Disappointed sigh*
Virgil: Sheesh, ya sloppily eat some jam, accidentally make a few puns, and now you're all sensitive about not being taken seriously?
Logan: I'm not a joke! I mean... I... can't be thought of as such, because there will be times in which I must be heeded and given our... current circumstances... I clearly haven't been. So I'm saying what must be said. I can't tolerate this foolishness any longer. You need to change your life around.
Virgil: Logan, I... appreciate what you bring to the table and all, but the thing you just recommended would be a MASSIVE change in Thomas's life. So... I... kind of hate you a little bit right now and... Shut your dirty mouth.
Everyone laughed at Virgil's reaction to what Logan had had to say.
Logan: Typical.
Thomas: I don't know, Virge. Maybe he's right. Maybe that's the cause of all this.
Virgil: Thomas, don't start. I have plenty of hate to go around...
Patton: Oh, very funny, Virgil, ya cute little muffin! Thomas, you know, he doesn't mean it.
Everyone chuckled at Patton.
Patton: And Logan, that was...Helpful! When the chips were down you brought up some very meaty points, ya old cracker jack! But this stuff is more than just silly or cheesy, and I'm sorry I keep bringing up food. It's just the inside of this bag smells like first grade lunch in the cafeteria and so many memories!
Roman: Patton, *snaps* stay with us.
Everyone laughed.
Patton: Sorry. Boy, I really MILKED that bit. Wacka Wacka!
Everyone chuckled.
Roman: What I think Patton was trying to say is that Logan has just proven that he's the worst and that he's been the thorn in your side all along.
Virgil: Could you even contribute like an ounce of constructive input to our conversation today, Doctor Do-the-Most?
Everyone laughed at how so over Roman Virgil was.
Roman: Okay, why don't you just go get lost in a dryer?
Everyone chuckled.
Virgil: You know Roman, it's too bad your brain isn't as big as that chin.
Roman: Well, you smell like FOOT!
Thomas: Roman.
Roman: No, Thomas, I know. That wasn't helpful. In truth, I do feel bad.
Thomas: You do?
Roman: ...Yes.
Virgil: Well then maybe you should say you're sorry.
Roman; You're right.
Virgil: Oh really?
Roman: Logan.
Virgil: Okay.
Everyone laughed.
Roman: Earlier. I made you angry. I do that quite a bit actually... I provoked you and you retaliated with violence. *Under breath* Like a stupid caveman.
Everyone laughed.
Roman: But! I am responsible for my actions and my actions alone. So, I'm sorry.
Logan: Oh, well, that's... very kind.
Roman: Okay, well I gave that a shot. I still feel bad.
Everyone chuckled.
Patton: Well, why not try expressing your feelings in a way that makes sense for you!
Roman: Well, that might work. Let's see... *Clears throat* Maestro?
*Music plays*
Logan: Oh, uh what? No...
Everyone laughed at Logan's reaction to the music.
Roman: So you've gone and called someone stupid...And in response, they damaged your eye.But there is where the conflict must end. Lest you both end up blind.
Logan: Another song? Really?
Everyone chuckled.
Roman: Sometimes the problems at playare not all plain to see.So we lash out at our loved onesdisregarding our bonds' sanctity!
Patton: There are several sides to us that may seem abstract at first until we discover where everything fits and...People can be like a half-missing puzzle set. As we find the pieces, things make more and more sense!
Thomas: Nice imagery, but I'm not sure I follow...
Patton: Well, I'll give you an example... I had this problem where I'd often hide my less-than-awesome feelings so when I would feel like sobbing I'd just smile and crack jokes!I thought that that was coping. Only joking, never showing sadness, hoping it would go away.
Logan: Did that work?
Patton:Nope! I felt bad
Roman: Aw, Pat...
Patton: it's okay!
Thomas: How's that?
Everyone chuckled. Some of the viewers started to tap their feet along with the music.
Patton:Everybody gets sad.Even dad's that have people to care for! And thereforeYou don't have to hide your pain. Life without rainy days is incomplete! Or, like, not even a thing, ya know? Rain goes to plants, plants feed animals, Plant-eating animals feed animal eating animals, and humans feed animals corn and inject them with hormones until they can barely walk anymo-
Everyone's eyes were wide at the tangent Patton went on though the Patton in the room was also blsuhing.
Thomas: Patton?
Patton: Yes?
Thomas: How does all that relate to rain?
Patton: Oh, right, rainy days. Forgot what I was talking about! Um, putting it simply, rain is a necessary piece of the puzzle that is... uh life.
Logan: *Unenthusiastically* So true... Are we done singing or is this just one of those musical interludes-
Virgil: On the subject of storm clouds... Cause, ya know... you need storm clouds to make... rain- I'm just gonna get into it, *clears throat* You once knew me as real gloomy. This weird, spooky, broody dude because I knew you'd listen to me as too scary to ignore.I thought that I could take it, all the hate could just be shaken,But when you lo... CARE for someone, not much hurts more than their scorn. I also felt bad.
Roman: Come now...
Virgil: In a different way.
Thomas: Different how?
Virgil: By "bad", I mean, well, "mean", but I did what I thought that I had to... ...which is bad, too!I don't have to act all tough.
Thomas: Sometimes love is enough.
Patton: Or what we need!
Logan: That was a quaint little review of things that we already knew. Now, can our discourse resume? There's pressing matters at hand.
Thomas: Actually, that was for your benefit.
Logan: I don't see how THAT could be relevant.
Patton: Logan, please!
Thomas: Our goal's benevolent.
Logan: You know me; I don't care for sentiment.
Roman: OMG!
Everyone chuckled.
Logan & Thomas: This just serves as testament to the fact that
Logan: to me you're negligent, Thomas: you have a temperament,
Both: Which is fine,
Logan: It just works to your detriment, you not letting me finish is proving my- Thomas: You just haven't accepted it, if you'd let them finish they'd get to the-
Virgil: Hey! You're lost.
Logan: I'm right here.
Everyone chuckled.
Virgil: it's okay.
Logan: You're acting weird...
Everyone was once again chuckling.
Virgil: I was lost once, too, but thanks to all of you, life sucks less now.
Thomas, Roman, & Patton: We're your best pals!
Virgil: No one wants to be a joke-
Thomas, Patton, & Roman:But a life free of jokes is incomplete!
Roman: Oh my gosh guys, if we're airing out our dirty laundry, would you mind if I participated?
Thomas: By all means, sure!
Everyone laughed when he was shown hanging out actually laundry.
Roman: I'd also like to contribute to this weird, venty song!
Thomas: Please do.
Roman: *Clears throat* I've got an issue that feels new school. I don't want to say I'm too cool,but, I'm just too fab for you fools and I feel like you don't get me!
Thomas: You insulted us WHILE venting.
Roman: Uh, sorry!
Thomas: It's alright, Princey.Honestly, it didn't hurt me. It's clear YOU'RE the one that's hurting.
Roman: Huh?
Virgil: You feel low.
Roman: That's not true!
Patton: It's okay!
Roman: Don't assume!
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: You don't need to save face.
Virgil: In almost any case, Patton & Virgil: We'd embrace you.
Roman: That's rich...
Virgil: No one hates you.
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas, Virgil, & Patton: Everybody's got flaws,
Thomas: But with no you at all, I'm incomplete.
Patton & Virgil: There!Now you see
Patton, Roman, and Virgil: Everybody goes wrong and we put it in songSo it's easier to hear it.
Patton: This puzzle's tough, I'll admit, but in time we'll find whereeverything fits.
"That was a great song" Talyn smiled.
Everyone agreed.
Thomas: Wow. Guys, that... really helped me feel better.
Logan: Wh- from th- how?
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: I don't know. I don't have all of my feelings worked out, but I don't know if that would have been reasonable to expect. Although... now I know where some of the issues are originating from.
Roman: *Sighs* Me too.
Logan: Oh, DO you Roman?
Everyone chuckled.
Roman: They're originating with... me. *Sigh* Logan, I know that I act like I'm not concerned with schedules or numbers or anything, but I am! I know that we have a responsibility and I want everything to be the best it can be. It's just...
Patton: Keep going, Roman...
Roman: *Sighs* It's so hard to create anything that I'm proud of when it's critiqued, so harshly...by you.
"Aww" Valerie cooed causing Roman in the room to blush.
Logan: What?
Roman: Nothing ever seems to be good enough, professional enough... Serious enough for you.
Logan: I...didn't realize. Well... likewise, you think I'm not concerned with the quality of the product. I do hold that as a priority. I just... well, that's... not exactly MY specialty... Wait, I- I was getting frustrated that instead of carrying on with the conversation, we were stopping to sing that random song but...the song was PART of the conversation!
Patton: Well, yeah! Sometimes talking about feelings can be scary or... *Deep breath* ...overwhelming. And it's easier to parcel them out in different ways! Better that than internalizing them and hoping they'll go away!
"I love how smart Patton is being shown as this episode" Lilly smiled. Everyone agreed.
Roman: It... did make things easier.
Logan: So these things that we do sometimes... While they are...silly. They can also be constructive and effective...
Virgil: No matter what we do, logic always has a part to play, Logan.
"That was nice Virgil" Thomas grinned at the side sitting next to him. Virgil was blushing.
Logan: Maybe so. Perhaps there is room for me to participate in the conveyance of ideas through... unconventional means.
Thomas: Logan that's exactly what I needed to hear. Knowing that, no matter the medium, information, ideas, and art can be expressed...
Logan: Effectually and intelligently.
Everyone was smiling at the happy, sappy atmosphere in the episode.
Patton: Maybe it's time to ask yourself another important question...
Thomas: Why did I never question people's belittling views on what I do? I always thought people were fair to not take my work seriously. I never considered the Subjectivity of what CAN be taken seriously!
Patton: Oh my goodness- breakthrough! I'm getting emotional! Virgil! Hug me!
Virgil: Oh, don't hug me. I'm scared.
Everyone laughed Patton and Virgil included.
Logan: All right, maybe there's some knowledge out there that I... ...wasn't privy to before. Not that I was wrong! But... I should be open to more sources. Roman... I suppose... I could... be less judgmental... with each idea... you... create.
Roman: Err... thank you, Logan, that, um... that helps.
Virgil: Thank god, I can move my arms again.
Everyone chuckled at that.
Logan: I-I don't suppose there's anything that I could do to make it up to you?
Roman: Aw... Yes, you can become a puppet
Patton: *Squeals*
Virgil: Only if you want to!
Everyone smiled at Virgil onscreen trying to look after the others mental wellbeing.
Logan: No, you three have proven that it is a worthy form of communicating ideas. So...
Thomas: Whoa.
*Mechanical noises* *Beep*
Logan: There, *ahem*, I am a puppet.
Patton: *Gasps* Wooooooow! *Hits eye* OW!
Everyone laughed at Patton's clumsiness.
Roman: You Iron...Giant... ...Nerd!
Patton: You look really good, Logan!
Virgil: Oh wow... you're not made of felt.
Logan: Of course not. I've never felt anything in my life.
Everyone laughed at that.
Roman: Oh, brother.
"Ooo he mentioned me" squealed Remus loudly causing Deceit and Virgil to cover their ears.
Thomas: Seriously, though, thank you, guys. Patton, you were right! When it comes to learning... Puppets can still be... pretty efficacious.
Logan: Beep boop! I'm detecting a good word that was used by: Thomas. You're right. This is actually quite... Uh, invigorating.
Everyone chuckled and Logan blushed slightly.
Patton: It just goes to show you that it's better to talk about your feelings than keep them inside! It's a really great way to begin to work through your issues. Mmmhmm!
Virgil: Well, then, uhm... While we're talking about things, Patton.
Patton: Yeah, kiddo?
Virgil: I don't always like... when you talk about me like I'm some... innocent, harmless... angel.
Patton: Oh.
Virgil: It-It just- it kind of makes me feel weird. Not in a- Not in a... wei-uh... weird...way-um...It takes away some of my uh... Thunder...
Everyone chuckled at how awkward the characters were acting.
Patton: Oh, okay! You got it, Virgil.
Roman: Look at this! Looks like Thomas wasn't the only one who needed to learn new things about himself today! *Laughs*
Everyone laughed.
Logan: And I am always one for learning. So you're all better now, right Roman?
Roman: Ah... Maybe not... but I won't shy away from that fact any longer!
Logan: Well, you... ...have my support. High five?
Roman: Oh. Okay.
*Mechanical whirring*
*Buzz*
Roman: You did the stretchy arm!
Everyone chuckled.
Thomas: Ah, it's not as gross when a robot does it!
Roman: Yes!
Virgil: Hopefully this means a little peace and quiet...
Thomas: Virgil I owe you and Patton for pushing me to find a solution!
Virgil: Like we said, a, uh... dynamic duo! High five?
Patton: Sock it to me! *Laughs*
Everyone chuckled.
Virgil: Yeah... *Stretching sounds*
Patton & Virgil: Oh!
Virgil: Ok, wha- uh. Patton: Hold on.
Patton: I didn't know you were gonna...
Thomas: *Gagging* Patton: ... do it, too. Virgil: Yeah, no, I thought I'd...
Virgil: go in this time. Patton: Ok, hold on. *Stretching noises*
Patton: I got it. Virgil: Wait. Thomas: *Gagging*
Patton: Oh, I'm sorry. I'm sorry about that.
Virgil: No, it's all good. Ow.
Thomas: What are you... doing? No...
Virgil: Wait. Wait.
Virgil: Annnd... *High Five* Patton: Ah!
Everyone laughed at how long it took to get a high five.
Patton: Got it! *Nervous laughter*
Virgil: Ok. Yeah... figured it out.
Patton: It... just took a second...
Thomas: Good job...
Logan: Um... one last question... Can you tell me how to get-?
Roman, Virgil, & Patton:How to get to Sesame Street!
Everyone chuckled.
Logan: No, no! How to, uh... How to get back to my normal self. I seem to be stuck.
Everyone started laughing.
Thomas: Well, today was definitely a learning experience for me on multiple levels. Perhaps there's not a glaring issue that we face, but... Asking ourselves the right questions could get us to the bottom of our feelings. Problems won't be solved all at once It's unrealistic to expect that. But it is important to talk about things, especially concerning reoccurring problems, to think critically about them, not ignore them... and hope they'll pass. It's okay if nothing gets fixed right away. You've taken an important first step. You looked at the puzzle and hopefully got your hands on that first edge piece. Until next time, take it easy guys, gals and non-binary pals! Peace out!
Everyone: BYE!
"I love how positive and light you try and keep the final message" Talyn smiled.
Everyone agreed.
Thomas: Before we head to the end card, I have to thank today's sponsor, Skillshare, for making this video possible! Skillshare is an online learning community with thousands of classes in design, technology, and even lessons in learning, which I think is appropriate for this video. I went on there, searched their database. I know so many of you out there are creative individuals. They have classes in art and writing and so many more. So if you are looking to improve your skills in those fields, it definitely is worth it to check out Skillshare.
Premium membership gives you unlimited access to high-quality classes from experts working in their field, so you can improve your skills, unlock new opportunities, and do the work you love. On top of all this skill share is less expensive than most learning platforms out there. For an annual subscription, it comes out to less than $10 a month. And the first 500 people to sign up using this link or by clicking the link down in the description will get their first two months free, so you got nothing to lose for the first two months. Definitely worth it to try it.
Also remember that hat that Logan was wearing early in the video? The Cogitating Cap? Well now... you can have your very own! It is now available at our store, . Hopefully if you guys visit that site, you'll find something that catches your eye. Any purchases you guys make over there help to make videos like these possible!
Everyone smiled at the thought of people buying merch that Thomas realizes.
Thomas: Obviously, if you don't have the funds right now to purchase anything, don't worry about it, because we appreciate any and all support you guys do provide through your kind messages, your fan art, your cosplay.
"Wow people are cosplaying as us and making art pieces as well?" Virgil asked shocked.
Everyone else was amazed at that thought.
Thomas: Seriously, it just boosts our morale and keeps us going, so thank you all so much for every bit of support you can and do provide. It is greatly appreciated! One more thing before the end card, you guys, I cannot end this video without giving a huge "thank you" and shout out to Adam Kreutinger and Nate Begle. Adam Kreutinger made all of the puppets you saw in this video today. He worked from designs Joan came up with and created these amazing puppets. I've fallen in love with all of them. And they were all brought to life by Nate Begle. He came in and dedicated a whole day to make this video happen. Puppeteering is way harder than you'd ever think it would be! We realized very quickly we weren't gonna be able to master puppeteering in the short amount of time we had to get this video up, so Nate stepped in and Nate is wonderful at it! You can check out everything Adam's creating right here, and everything Nate has to offer right here at their websites. Thank you guys so much for making the video everything it was. It was awesome. I loved it!
"That was a great episode" Thomas smiled.
Everyone once again agreed. They all seemed to be good episodes' even if some were harder to watch then others.
"ENDCARD!" screeched Remus causing all of them to cover their poor ears. Virgil's heart also racing as his eyes did a quick dart around for danger.
Roman: Ah! My favorite part of the video.
Patton: Oh the end card?
Roman: Yeah.
Patton: Because of our unfettered silliness?
Roman: Nope. Because it's almost over!
Both: (Laugh a la Statler & Waldorf)
Everyone laughed.
Logan: What are they doing?
Virgil: *Sigh* It's a puppet bit, just ignore them.
Everyone chuckled.
Roman: Boy, I can't believe Thomas worked out another issue!
Patton: Ahhh is there anything he CAN'T work out?
Roman: Yeah. His body.
Both: *Laugh a la Statler & Waldorf*
Everyone laughed.
Logan: I have no idea what this is, but... Logan: This is highly entertaining.
Virgil: Oh boy...
Everyone chuckled.
Roman: *Yawn* Well, now that that's all settled, I'm ready for a little relaxation.
Patton: Well, I got some good news for ya!
Roman: What's that?
Patton: You'll get a LOT of relaxation because it'll probably be another six months until the NEXT Sanders Sides!
Both: *Laugh a la Statler & Waldorf*
Virgil: If you guys are right about that one, I'm gonna... I'm gonna, like... Frickin' lose it.
Logan: Agreed.
Everyone burst into laughter as the screen flicked off signaling the end of the episode. It took a few minutes to calm down.
"Another episode down" Roman cheered.
"Next episode but let's get some snacks because that was a long one" Thomas said with a smile.
Everyone raced over to the snack table grapping as much and as many different snacks as they wanted as well as drinks.