We live in the Netherlands, and that is a great destination. No matter how crazy you make it here, strictly speaking you do not have to live in a sewer pipe. In fact; those who choose the challenge of a completely messed up life have to do their utmost. Sooner or later you will be picked up from the street, kicked the habit, taken to an institution and finally put in an independent living unit with a small allowance. In all probability you will still die in a soft bed, in the worst case after years of stubborn self-neglect in a hospice. Next to you a very nice volunteer on a stool. Globally speaking, it could be worse. But I tell you, dear reader, the price we pay is considerable.
Nothing is worse for ambition than comfort. Our welfare state, although somewhat austere in theory, is not good for many. A easy life not only makes you lazy, but even a little anxious. Changes are seen as threats, life events as a reason for long-term sick leave and setbacks as 'the end of the world'. This finally caused our six-mentality. Of course, there are exceptions. You and I are among them, otherwise I would not be writing this blog and you would not be reading it.
Our sons and daughters are certainly not part of the legion of unambitious cowards. And some of your fellow directors are real iron eaters. Despite these birds of paradise, the sixes determine the street scene and the workplace, admit it. I don't know what you think about it, but I myself do not expect any improvement in the short and medium term. The praise for their supposed genius clouded the self-image of the current and future young people, so we should not rely on that. With the exception of our own children. That goes without saying.
The mentality of 'rights, no obligations' is the downside of the welfare state that is still present in all its glory. "That's just the system we live in", I hear you say. And you're right. However, the system gradually caused this culture of sixes. Nothing is permanent. We have to wait for a social change. Until that moment of great grace, it helps if we learn to let go. Don't worry, I'm not advocating giving up the comfortable existence. Hardships may be beneficial for the species, but disadvantageous for the individual in the sewer pipe. I do advocate abolishing the so-called safe frameworks. So-called, indeed, because safety is fiction.
Your job of years, your familiar corner house and your small fortune in the bank; they are not fixed beacons. You only think so. It is not making the wrong choice or inattention that usually leads to loss. No, it is the unpredictability of life itself. Frameworks are abstract, limits do not exist. That is why I am breaking a lance for a daring existence. Invest. Buy shares. Get out of or into that job. Commit yourself or break free, depending on your current state. In short; please take the risk that you are reluctant to take. Exciting? Of course, but courage is controlled fear. And tell me, what can happen to you? We live in the Netherlands. The country where we cannot lose, and nines and tens are still feasible.
Wilma Out