Human Discontentment
Last Night (while waiting for the jeepney to depart), I noticed two street children wandering on the street. They were grimy and were dressed in overgrown clothes.
Now, I see this kind of images almost everyday in my life. What was different about last night was the thought of having to spend Christmas like that. No food, dirty clothes, on the street, and without anyone.
For a brief moment, I realized how unappreciative I am of my blessings. When the jeepney started to depart though, my thoughts began shifting on what TV show I should watch when I arrive home.
This made me question: Are we, as humans, capable of feeling contented of what we have for a long period of time?
Of course, when we see people struggling while we are having the time of our lives, we tend to feel good that we are not in their place. But like what happened to me last night, this feeling of contentment lasted only for a minute or two.
Last night I was chatting with a friend from Singapore. I asked him whether he was enjoying his financial freedom (as he was rich). He said that it was all right but that he wants more.
His statement proves that we humans can never say: that’s it, I'm happy now. We would forever try climb onto the top (if ever there is one) of the social and career ladders.
But of course, discontent shouldn't be treated as something dire. It can even be a reason for all our successes in all aspects of life.
Feeling of discontent is apparently what made civilizations. Could you imagine how the world would be right now if people from the past felt extremely contented of what they had?
Discontent can be a strength as well as weakness. In excess and shortage, it can be destructive, but in moderation it can make the world a better place.
Now, I see this kind of images almost everyday in my life. What was different about last night was the thought of having to spend Christmas like that. No food, dirty clothes, on the street, and without anyone.
For a brief moment, I realized how unappreciative I am of my blessings. When the jeepney started to depart though, my thoughts began shifting on what TV show I should watch when I arrive home.
This made me question: Are we, as humans, capable of feeling contented of what we have for a long period of time?
Of course, when we see people struggling while we are having the time of our lives, we tend to feel good that we are not in their place. But like what happened to me last night, this feeling of contentment lasted only for a minute or two.
Last night I was chatting with a friend from Singapore. I asked him whether he was enjoying his financial freedom (as he was rich). He said that it was all right but that he wants more.
His statement proves that we humans can never say: that’s it, I'm happy now. We would forever try climb onto the top (if ever there is one) of the social and career ladders.
But of course, discontent shouldn't be treated as something dire. It can even be a reason for all our successes in all aspects of life.
Feeling of discontent is apparently what made civilizations. Could you imagine how the world would be right now if people from the past felt extremely contented of what they had?
Discontent can be a strength as well as weakness. In excess and shortage, it can be destructive, but in moderation it can make the world a better place.
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