THE GOAL IS GRATIFICATION
2 PARAGRAPHS 4 LIBERTY: 468
Let me get philosophical by asking you what is the most important thing in life, at least in this world? My answer is that it is not wealth, fame, success or even love – it is gratification, which I define as having the legitimate belief that the world is a somewhat better place because you spent your span of years upon it.* In fact, in that regard, probably the worst thing that can happen to people is to be on their deathbeds, look back over their lives and think: “I wish I would have,” or “I wish I had not have.” I have tried not to let that happen to me.
People can obtain this type of gratification in almost limitless ways, such as being a loving and supportive spouse, raising well-adjusted children, serving other people who need help in a caring manner, helping people to resolve their disputes, donating money to worthy causes, working in animal shelters or for groups that protect our environment, etc. But worshiping at the religion of “My Yacht is Bigger than Your Yacht” in my opinion is shallow and does not yield that gratification. We are all truly blessed by where, when and how we live, and to appreciate those benefits and pass them on to others is a gratifying thing to do. I hope you agree, and pursue it in your own way! Thus: Life is Good!
Quote for the week: “It’s not what you look at that matters, it’s what you see.” Henry David Thoreau
* This view was reinforced by the novel I just read entitled The Midnight Library by Matt Haig (Penguin Books, 2023). Really a good read!
Judge Jim Gray (Ret.) Superior Court of Orange County, California 2012 Libertarian Candidate for Vice President