Just Looking Out

I was having a tough time deciding what to write about this week, as I wanted to go back to more comedic topics, but haven't really been in a comedic mood the past few days.

So, I thought back to something my stepmother brought up last week; and the topic has been mentioned by other family members before: The fact that when I do something, there's usually an ulterior motive. Usually this motive is how my actions will most benefit me. I was always thinking of me first. I do nice things to be nice occasionally, but usually I would like something in return. I never did this consciously, but after recent events, I more now than ever believe in looking out for yourself.

My father believes in Karma, that because of good deeds that you do, things will come back around. That if you "do the right thing" you will be rewarded for your efforts. He's not religious at all, but he uses his belief in Karma to keep positive when times are rough.

Many look towards religion to help "guide" them through their trials and tribulations. Turning to a Higher Power is a way to help understand why certain situations ended up the way that they have, be it for better or worse. They believe that there is a Bigger Plan for all of mankind.

While I don't like to view myself as a pessimist, I think that both Karma and Religion is a load of shit. I'm not knocking anybody that uses it to get by, it's just not for me. First, if Karma really did exists, scumbag people who only look out for themselves and have not really contributed much to society (Paris Hilton is the first who comes to mind) would not get to do whatever they F'n feel like all the time. People that have had it rough for a long time would at least catch a break here or there. It would not constantly be the same results for the same people.

Religiously, I just have a tough time with the whole "Mine is right, yours is wrong" thought process that goes into a lot of teachings from many different sects of religion. No one has met any of the gods, or religious icons. Jesus isn't on your speed dial. So how are you so sure that what is written in a book or two is the exact way things are. As for a bigger plan, athletes thank God for touchdowns, but I'm sorry...God doesn't have a favorite football team. If he did, it might be the Gators (that's just because of His' boy Tebow).

My point is, don't but your life into the hands of something that has the possibility of not being true at all. To trust these "forces" leaves you hoping that something will go right, not making it go right. You need to trust in yourself and do what is good for YOU, even if it's just for that moment. While, at all times this may not be the right thing to do, you'll know that you did what you wanted, and you should never regret that.

While this may sound arrogant and selfish, you only need to worry about yourself, and figuring how to better your standing. It will never be said, but that's what the American Dream is - getting yours. The same should be said about personal relationships. There are many people out there, and very few of them are trustworthy enough for you to fully believe that they are looking out for any of your interests, let alone your best.

Don't count on someone or something to hang onto you because you'll get dropped like a fly ball to a Mets' outfielder. So, just stay on your game and don't get played like you're a Nintendo Wii.