Originally posted by William
Right, I agree - providing for our loved ones is HUGE.
... I personally would always wonder if my family would have loved me that much more if I would have done something big with my life.
Well here is my take on this. One must be somewhat well rounded. If I traded every day, made a lot of money, and just indulged myself with an expensive lifestyle, then I would have to say, yes, I have not contributed to the greater good.
But doing for ones loved ones is an important part of life. And yet, that too is in some way (arguably) still a somewhat selfish way of life if you do not expand beyond that.
But there is so much opportunity to do good either directly with efforts, or indirectly with financial participation.
I got into something in the Chit Chat forums one day. It was then that I realized that arguing is futile here. (Daniel_M should remember). But in that (hopefully my last "argument"), I talked about how I always made a contribution to a particular international civil rights group. I did not mention that I also have participated in helping to raise money for the group. So in my way, that is one of the pet causes I believe I can help with, and makes me feel better about myself.
Now I don't presume to say that charitable donations or community service participation justifies any "lack of contributing to society". But we just are a PART of society. And it is not our responsibility necessarily to make the world a better place in a noticeable way. It is only our responsibility to not add to the problems. If we can help with solutions, well that is great. But we cannot beat ourselves up if we are doing what makes us happy and at the same time can support ourselves and our families doing it.
If you want to do something for the greater good, you can always run for political office. Or help others. Even if it is in something so trivial as trying to relay information or knowledge on some traders' bulletin board.
Or making people laugh. Which is always a great thing!
Oh, and as far as Williams question.....doing something "big" with one's life is very subjective. But having loved ones, loving and being loved and raising children and just being a responsible and law abiding citizen and member of your community IS a big thing. I have an acquaintance who is a US Representative. He has aspirations to run for Governor. Maybe someday national office. I believe in his ideals, and I admire him greatly. But in truth, how many of us can really have a world (or even congressional district) impact?
I also have a very close friend who is a "movie star" with an Oscar and a lot of nominations. Every single one of you here would know who she is. Now she has provided entertainment for millions of people. But does she do it for the greater good? I don't think so. She does it for herself. And her family. What is "big"? We can only judge ourselves. Doing the right thing, being kind and considerate and honest is what gets you into heaven (if there is such a thing or place). And enjoying life....that counts big time. If you have a positive approach to life, it positively affects those you touch. And that makes an impact. That is as "big" as any of us needs to strive for.
Peace, love, harmony, music, and smooth sailing to all,
Rs7
