I really, REALLY, don't want to do this. It is freaking hot out. I would rather spend the rest of my day (and my life, for that matter) sitting in front of an air conditioner sleeping next to my dog and waking up occansionally to eat and do a quick Sudoku to pass the time. Of course, my girlfriend, my dog, and most other people in my life won't allow this to happen.
My question is this, "Why the f*$k not?"
The answer is obvious, because "THIS IS AMERICA, STUPID!"
You see, here in these United States, we have come to believe in an idea that is utterly contrary to my inner being. This is the idea that "work," no matter how you may feel about it, is entirely necessary in order for us "be" someone. We cannot define ourselves without it. We worship it, and we hoist those who do it with gusto to a pedastal high upon Mt. Olympus. Those industrious spirits who are unable to find satisfaction in anything but highly productive, stress inducing, creation of some tangible (or intangible) product at the expense of all else in their lives. The "workaholic" is the model against which we judge ourselves. I know many hardworking people who think of themselves as lazy and shiftless if they don't put in at least 50-60 hours of work each week. They idolize those that regularly post 60-70 hours and stand in awe of others who can magically do more.
Why is this so impressive to us? Because, behind this idea, is the great capitalist game: who ever dies with the most money wins. This game is a game of social class as well. None of this work means anything unless it is a "big, important" job, done by someone who has all of their impressive degrees in order. Do we idolize the single working mother with 3 or 4 jobs? No, we scorn her and whisper assumpitons we make about her behind her back. Working 60-70 hours a week and barely surviving doesn't impress us.
And what about those people who aren't impressed by such an extreme work ethic? I'm certainly one of them, and I'd be willing to bet that if you find that offensive, you've made a ton of assumptions about me as well. Do you assume I'm a slacker? A loser? A leach upon society? I'm unemployed, and I want to work. I've been looking for a job for quite a while now. I always try to do my best when I'm given the opportunity. I understand that we need to work in order to survive, to get the bills paid and stave off the IRS. I want this country to work, and I'm more than willing to do my part. What I despise is the zealous mentality that only hard working people deserve what they get. Because, who gets to define what "hard work" is anyway? Besides, what is so wonderful about passing away all of our time at work? Don't people in Europe take off several weeks each summer and enjoy themselves without judging each other? Why do I feel guilty about not having a job? I'm looking dammit! Get off my case America, freaking relax for a minute. This is our one chance to exist, to enjoy a moment in the sun. Go ahead and work, I'm gonna lie down in front of the air conditioner and finish that Sudoku.
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Hey Jim, nice start! Just my two cents about the whole American work ethic thing... something I've learned from traveling. And that is - it's a uniquely American belief that through hard work and education anyone can create opportunities for themselves and make a better life. Honestly, that surprised me, but a lot of other countries don't understand that kind of "American hope". I for one think it's a pretty cool idea. Keep up the writing, food for thought is always good.
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