The Plight Of The Earnest

All I ever wanted to do was study hard, work hard, be a good man, maybe perform a stint as a public servant, and raise a family. It took me a long time to figure out that's just not possible for an earnest soul in a decaying civilization. The entire narrative confronting a man on how he should live today is a lie.

Study hard? Schools don't give a fig how well you master the material or demonstrate intellectual curiosity or achievement. All they want are students who dutifully listen to the faculty, who regurgitate the "right" answers, and most of all, who demonstrate an ability to become prodigious donors.

Work hard? The modern workplace is a circle jerk dominated by the C students who care only about money. Perish the notion of striving for excellence, taking pride in one's work, or behaving ethically. Such ideals stand in the way of churning business and functioning as a team player.
  
Be a good man? Are you kidding me? There are legions of good men who have been fired, divorced, imprisoned, or otherwise screwed six ways to Sunday because they lack the remorseless guile of their infinite adversaries. A good man today is a sucker.

Public service? Elected officials are expected to deliver as much plunder to their shameless and voracious constituents as possible. Judges are expected to enforce unjust and unconstitutional laws on a daily basis. Anyone suggesting a modest, lawful role for government has no chance of obtaining or holding office.

Raise a family? It can be whisked away on a moment's notice, for any reason or no reason. Even if that doesn't happen, good luck on trying to instill any enduring values or principles, which are considered passé or even oppressive.

The plight of the earnest man today is either to be a participating victim or a dissenting rebel. There is no middle ground anymore.