Bashing Happiness

I was disturbed and saddened this week when I read, (in 'Moral Tribes' by Joshua Greene), of a study that showed endorsement of a policy by conservative or liberal leadership had more influence than the actual policy substance. The study participants were shown a generous welfare policy endorsed by conservative leaders, and a restrictive welfare policy endorsed by liberal leaders. Both policies created significant majority partisan support, despite the fact that in a parallel study in which there was no policy endorsement, (as would be expected) conservatives preferred the more restrictive policy and liberals preferred the more generous policy.

As I have pondered this paradoxical behavior this week though, I am considering a change of heart. This consideration was influenced this morning by an off-the-cuff remark I made to my wife. On the way to work, as I found myself climbing down from my soapbox (-a frequent occurrence-) I said, "I'm sorry; some days I get tired of myself too." (I should note that my wife is very kind and patient, and had not said a discouraging word, nor even rolled her eyes; though I was preoccupied with a safe dismount, so I could have missed an eye-roll.) But I am being truthful when I say this vigilant effort at learning and growth for a better understanding can wear on one's body and mind, and these seemingly futile efforts toward fruitful communication can wear on one's spirit.

Perhaps there is something to be said for partisanship.

Perhaps it is time to simplify and stop thinking for myself. If I can let others do my thinking for me, perhaps I will have more time for HBO; (I like HBO).

Perhaps I should switch my reading efforts exclusively to fiction, and restrict my writing efforts to grocery lists and Scrabble score pads.

Perhaps my credentials are not as impeccable as required by those 'powers that be' who set that standard for those allowed to influence. I admit I am an old, low-ranking, pedestrian bother, full of imperfections and faults, only working part-time, and with a disability, a government check, and a low credit score. I know in the eyes of many I would not make their grade, so why should I care about things (I cannot impact) and people (who don't want to be bothered)?

Though I have learned my place, perhaps I should stop shouting at passersby, and learn to live quietly within my designated restrictions and limitations.

Perhaps I should no longer work at leaving a better world for generations to come; (including my beautiful granddaughter). Perhaps instead I can live within the utopian bliss of Shangri-la with all of my friends and neighbors; (we could join hands, smile, sing sunny tunes, and be happy together).

I know you detect a touch of sarcasm, but I really do like HBO. And I am sure there are studies that show if I surround myself with cheerful, smiling people, I will find myself smiling and feeling cheerful. So Why Not? Why should I bash my brains into oblivion when I could just walk right in? And be welcomed with open arms!

Put this way, the choice appears to be a no-brainer...

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One Response to Bashing Happiness

  1. Pingback: Hooked on Happiness | hopelesshappiness.com

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