Years ago I read a quote by Christopher Hitchens:
"Beware the irrational, however seductive. Shun the 'transcendent' and all who invite you to subordinate or annihilate yourself. Distrust compassion; prefer dignity for yourself and others. Don't be afraid to be thought arrogant or selfish. Picture all experts as if they were mammals. Never be a spectator of unfairness or stupidity. Seek out argument and disputation for their own sake; the grave will supply plenty of time for silence. Suspect your own motives, and all excuses. Do not live for others any more than you would expect others to live for you.”
I choose my battles, though. I often have other, more immediate priorities like making dinner or checking my child's homework. But it's good to be engaged with the world. As Hitch said, there will be plenty of time for disengagement after the big sleep comes.
"Beware the irrational, however seductive. Shun the 'transcendent' and all who invite you to subordinate or annihilate yourself. Distrust compassion; prefer dignity for yourself and others. Don't be afraid to be thought arrogant or selfish. Picture all experts as if they were mammals. Never be a spectator of unfairness or stupidity. Seek out argument and disputation for their own sake; the grave will supply plenty of time for silence. Suspect your own motives, and all excuses. Do not live for others any more than you would expect others to live for you.”
I choose my battles, though. I often have other, more immediate priorities like making dinner or checking my child's homework. But it's good to be engaged with the world. As Hitch said, there will be plenty of time for disengagement after the big sleep comes.
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