Mel
In the Philippines
The Philippines April 2023
I’ve been traveling the world on and off since I was 18, and it has opened my eyes to something that feels very painful at times.
I’m so grateful for my opportunities, and at the same time gratitude doesn’t feel like enough.
Im middle class and have more money and resources than 99% of the worlds population.
I get to live my dreams when so many people are suffering
I have freedom when so many don’t have basic human rights
My biggest takeaway when I travel abroad is that the things I worry about in America are completely unimportant in comparison to the struggles experienced by many in the world.
I never have to worry about:
-potable drinking water that can be hot or cold and comes out of a faucet.
-consistent heat and electricity in my home
-excellent medical care
-food shortages
- basic human needs
The chances of us even being born are so improbably, yes I was lucky enough to be born AND born into the wealthiest country in the world.
This is not a guilt trip. It’s a Philosophical dilemma.
I don’t want to live my life in guilt, but I also don’t think having gratitude is enough.