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You might really enjoy this essay. It changed my life. http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:Ph7EnkrHDRoJ:www.aaronsw.com/weblog/handwritingwall

You might really enjoy this essay. It changed my life. http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:Ph7EnkrHDRoJ:www.aaronsw.com/weblog/handwritingwall+&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=se&client=opera http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:Ph7Enkr... I came to terms with ideas like this by changing careers to a profession which, at least abstractly, benefits humanity. I've taken upon myself a modern/global idea of "noblesse oblige". The fortunate have an obligation to use their vast resources in a way that benefits others. We are fortunate to live in the West during this time, but that also means we have access to tremendous knowledge and ability that we are uniquely equipped to make good use of. Of course, I may just be fooling myself and the resources I consume would still be better spent directly helping others. I try to be clear that I'm far from a saint in this respect, but it's difficult to discuss these things with others without inducing guilt and defensiveness. I think these kind of things needs to be discussed though, so I'm glad you brought it up.

IllusoryReverb 8y ago
Thanks for the link to the essay. It captures the struggle I alluded to in my comment rather well. I find like my mind is resistant to actually going ahead and helping, the aforementioned excuses rear their head and the justifications come hard and fast and anything else seems like I am being an idealistic, wide eyed naive hippy. On some level I can recognize the need the writer points to, and what is being said. I feel there is a flaw in my thinking and in how I am approaching the world and living my life. Then the selfishness (is there a better word for it?) stares right back at me. There is safety in its coldness. I recognize it. I know it. I hate it too, but I know it. It is familiar. Leaving its cold embrace is too scary. I will be sharing the essay with like minded people when I can.

IllusoryReverb 8y ago

Thanks for the link to the essay. It captures the struggle I alluded to in my comment rather well. I find like my mind is resistant to actually going ahead and helping, the aforementioned excuses rear their head and the justifications come hard and fast and anything else seems like I am being an idealistic, wide eyed naive hippy. On some level I can recognize the need the writer points to, and what is being said. I feel there is a flaw in my thinking and in how I am approaching the world and living my life. Then the selfishness (is there a better word for it?) stares right back at me. There is safety in its coldness. I recognize it. I know it. I hate it too, but I know it. It is familiar. Leaving its cold embrace is too scary. I will be sharing the essay with like minded people when I can.