So, You're Entitled? Would the Universe Agree?

“A man said to the universe: Sir, I exist!”

“However,” replied the universe, “The fact has not created in me a sense of obligation.”

 

-Stephen Crane

  

I went out this morning on a 5 mile run.  On my way back into the neighborhood I looked at a home that I know to be in shortsale proceedings even though they don’t have a sign up.  The home is beautiful: 3 level, 4 beds, 2.5 baths, 2 Car Garage and an in-ground pool in the backyard.

 

Right at that instance I started thinking about entitlement.  An overwhelming sense of entitlement pervades our society.  The feeling of entitlement is hobbling and even devastating to an individual and a society, as we are learning.  The market and the universe do not care if you are completely convinced that you are entitled to a thing.  The market and the universe will eventually snap back into balance without remorse or concern for the individual or the masses and heaven help you if you’re the one trying to hold back the levy.  So you had better make sure you have really earned a thing before you take possession of it.

 

I get so philosophical on my long runs.  I don’t know why I don’t do it more other than the fact that I am so lazy.