Philosophy 101 - Chapter 1

As I ponder the existence of man, religion may cause me to contemplate his end, but what about his now?

 
As I was growing up, there was a concept in my mind of a successful person. That person was individually productive and also a benefit to the family unit. He was concerned with his community and government, and helped those in need, even if it meant that his own agenda had to be temporarily suspended. He was in charge, as in he was respected no matter where he resided in social status. If he was a worker, he was the best worker he could be, frugal with his time or his employers time. If he was the employer, he was involved, generous and fair. He was kind to his wife, children, pets, vehicle and house, giving them attention and investing in their continued operation. This man took pride in his efforts, but did not consider that he owned his abilities, his resources or his next breath. This man had the respect of others, and even if he didn't speak a word, the evidence that he deserved this respect, was the orderly expression of his property, family and his deeds.

But "now", success seems to have been completely redefined, into doing or being whatever is necessary, to get paid. We beg, borrow, pervert, steal and kill, all in the name of money. Acquiring things, has become the drug of the masses and the latest technology, its icon of status and achievement. Ethics has left the building, and been replaced by instant gratification. We have become so superficial, that a thirty second commercial is all that is necessary to sway our opinion or priority. Our flights of fancy, have been converted into need, and our striving the unquenchable appetite for more.

The issue being, that this lifestyle is not productive, in fact, to a productive person, this lifestyle is a disgrace. We are becoming a society of leeches, not only useless but a drain which is sucking the life out of those who do produce. We are becoming a nation of addictions, amusements and folly, which is not sustainable. Unless we return to the hard work of value, our worth will recede completely and the next major obstacle we face, putting pressure on such a flimsy structure, may cause it to come crashing down on our heads.

So, the question to ask is... What benefit am I to myself, my family, my community and my nation? If, "I buy stuff with other people's money", is the answer, then I would suggest that you reevaluate your life model. Ethics, morality, value, character and productivity are more than just pretty words, they are the infrastructure of a successful society. And as always, the change begins with you!