I hate how after finding out Ivan Ilych's died most of the people's first thoughts had something to do with greed. His "friend's" first thoughts were about who would get Ivan's job. His wife's fist thoughts were about how she could milk the government for money. His daughter was upset because his death interfered with her wedding plans. At first I wanna look down on these people and say "What the crap!? How can you feel like that? The guy just died!", but then I remember I am human just like them and I realize that I am capable of doing the same thing. However much I don't want to admit it.
I agree, when looking at other people it is easy to judge, but in all actuality we are just as bad, if not worse than those around us. Of course Ivan Ilych was no cup of tea either. He was just as greedy as everyone else in his family; always wanting more money, a larger house, and more power over people. His whole family was not content with whatever they had, so it makes sense that their greedy attitudes would continue after Ivan dies. It is the same way with people today. Power, money, and having the next best thing is a large part of society today, and along with that, greed. When my Great Aunt died I was very sad and grieved at her suffering, but when she left me money and jewelry in her will I could help but think "score! this is great!" I know I am not the only person who feels this way, but still feel awful about it.
ReplyDeleteI get where you're coming from Sam. This is my question though. Are we any different today? When Steve Jobs died how man people do you think were bending over backwards trying to get that job? His family is probably still fighting over all the money that he had. Can you really blame them though? I would probably be doing the same thing. If someone I was related to passed away and had a ton of money I'd be trying to get something out of it. Albeit I would wait until the mourning period was over. Does greed after the fact negate that it was greed? I think not.
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