Paycheck to paycheck

I’ve always shied away from full out ranting. I’ve always preferred to pull up my boot straps and get to work. Whining and worrying, I was taught, and I believe, will not put food on the table, labor will. At least that’s what I thought until I had to do it, every day, every week, every month, every year. As every passing year ended, it became evident that life on our planet, in our society, is not a given. It’s a struggle. Then again, one could argue, life is no easier for a fly, a snake or an eagle. All have to constantly look for food, and even in the case of top predators, stay safe. But aren’t we better than that? Aren’t we the mammal who managed to stand upright, invent agriculture and ultimately Pokémon and the Apple Watch?

Part of me likes the opportunities afforded by democracy and capitalism. I enjoy their fruit every day. I like my computer, motorcycle and fancy ties. But is that what life was meant to be? Was it supposed to be about having the best of everything or just good enough? My image of our ancestors are people whose mission it was to put food in family bellies, protect against predators and pass on wisdom. Why can’t we do the same, albeit at our modern level? I’m not suggesting that we do away with what has made us unique. I am, however, advocating that we find it in our hearts to change our societies slightly. Socialism? Communism? Absolutely not. But what about benevolent capitalism? What about wanting more but not too much? What about making sure that if we can afford a $15,000 watch, our neighbor be able to afford bread and water?

My life, like all of yours, has been a constant fight. It’s been a battle to stay afloat, to feed the kids, cloth them and ultimately send them on their way with a proper education. But why should it be a fight if we are capable of so much more? Why can’t it be a collective adventure? Is it so much better to be a lone adventurer and conqueror than to be the team member on a winning team?

I’m not rich, but if I was I know what I would want to do. I would want to feed my kids, put a roof over their heads, send them to the best school and then when that’s done, I would want to do the same with my neighbors, and their neighbors. Rather than more for me, it shoud be more for us.

Yes, those who know me know that this is just another disparity rant. I’ve been outed. Yes, a plateau of fancy French macarons are nice but i personally would rather buy four dozen donuts for the same price and share them with my neighbor and their neighbor.