Ego Breeds Entitlement

"Nonviolence is the answer to the crucial political and moral questions of our time; the need for mankind to overcome oppression and violence without resorting to oppression and violence. Mankind must evolve for all human conflict a method which rejects revenge, aggression, and retaliation. "

– Martin Luther King Jr.

The recent assassination of CEO Brian Thompson has elicited a range of emotions regarding the incident. While some individuals express unwavering support for his assailant, Luigi Mangione, others advocate for a more peaceful resolution. Personally, I align with the latter perspective. It is evident that our healthcare system is fraught with numerous issues; however, resorting to murder will not resolve these systemic problems. Luigi's actions represent a temporary fix, and it is likely that a successor to Brian has already been appointed and is prepared to assume the role he once held.

There is no justification for the absence of free healthcare in America. It is unacceptable for individuals to perish from treatable conditions merely to enrich the already affluent. Many suffer in silence due to their inability to afford medical consultations or necessary medications. The prevailing sentiment in America appears to prioritize financial gain above all else, often at the expense of human lives.

In many ways it appears that we have strayed significantly from our inherent humanity towards others. From a young age, many individuals are conditioned to prioritize their own interests. This behavior may stem from direct instruction or may be a learned response to traumatic experiences. Regardless of the underlying cause, this is our current state, and it seems that we are deteriorating further as a species.

“The first half of life is devoted to forming a healthy ego, the second half is going inward and letting go of it.”

– Carl Jung

Our egos significantly influence our identities. There exists a prevailing mindset that positions us as superior due to our American nationality, which subsequently affects our personal interactions. However, the reality is that we are neither the most exceptional nation nor the most outstanding individuals. An inflated ego fosters a sense of entitlement, leading us to believe we can achieve anything, including negative outcomes. It is possible to maintain self-confidence without indulging our egos, allowing us to progress as a nation without resorting to violence.

For many years, countless individuals have been diligently working behind the scenes to enhance our healthcare system. A constructive approach to fostering progressive change is to engage in voting, not solely during presidential elections but also in local. It is essential to familiarize oneself with the candidates on the ballot for every election. While it is true that politics can be corrupt, those in power are responsible for enacting legislation and effecting change at higher levels. Therefore, it is crucial to understand their positions and support those who are genuinely striving for improvement.

Luigi's actions may have raised awareness about healthcare issues among a wider audience, yet he failed to address the problem at its core. His actions resulted in the loss of one individual, leaving a family without a father and husband. In my view, he is not a hero; rather, he is a coward who opted for a misguided approach. While I do not claim that Brian was an exemplary individual, I assert that his murder did not resolve any issues—none at all. To effect meaningful change, we must confront the healthcare system in its entirety.

Throughout my career in food service and retail, I have encountered numerous instances when upper management visits. Typically, they arrive in expensive suits, driving cars that are beyond my financial reach, and they present demands that are nearly impossible for employees to fulfill. Their focus is solely on numbers, as they spend their days behind desks and on the phone, detached from the daily operations of the stores. They remain oblivious to the realities faced by employees, and it is almost comical how removed they are from the everyday challenges. Would resorting to violence against them improve the situation? Absolutely not. Instead, I choose to contribute positively and maintain my integrity. I recognize that my efforts may never meet their expectations, but I strive to ensure that I have done my best by the end of each day. I refuse to lower myself to their level of ignorance, which can sometimes border on hostility. If one is fortunate enough to ascend to a higher position, whether by taking their job or sitting alongside them, it is crucial to avoid repeating their mistakes. This is how genuine change occurs. If the daily environment at your workplace becomes intolerable, seek employment where your contributions are valued. While this analogy may not fully capture the turmoil within our healthcare system, my central message remains: violence will not yield solutions.

We have the capacity to advocate for change and make our voices heard through alternative means. Each state has its own regulations and opportunities for action, so it is essential to identify what can be done within your jurisdiction. Engage actively, support others, and step beyond your own ego to contribute to the greater good.