RE: Comfort forgone: Sharing suffering in a gift economy
Well, while I agree with a lot of the things you say here, I think you're seeing things, according to your own life and actions. It's only natural, I know. But the question that you ask in the beginning of this -
Do you think they have earned it or, is there the feeling that somehow they are privileged?
Does it ever cross your mind what sacrifices they have made to get there?
Is very subjective. Because thinking of you, of course I'd say 'no', I mean I know you've sacrificed a lot and that you work a lot for the community and I do believe you deserve what you have.
But.
But this isn't applicable to all people with a high status, great car, big wallet whatever. Some have worked for it and sacrificed a lot and deserve to be where they are, while others not. Some got there through pure luck, and for some, it is a circle jerk.
You can't judge everyone by this same standard, because everyone has different circumstances...
The question is applicable to all as it only asks, does it cross your mind, but doesn't work under the assumption that all have sacrificed, or any at all. Most have sacrificed something although at the time, they may not have realised what they have given up. It may be their future happiness and self-worth.