Are people "doing the best they can"?

[piedmontfields]

This is a hard thread for me to comment on because to give a proper response requires quite a bit of thought. I just can't try that hard I will try to get back to this.

Demi, I have to say your comment made me really laugh! Thank you.

I guess this topic is intriguing for me both personally and also from a social-political POV. When I think about society (and vote), I tend to support public policy which helps people do better rather than punishing people for mistakes. When I think about myself or specific individuals, I can be much harsher in my conclusions (ex. Gorilla child parent!). I live in a part of the country where having a social-political POV that embraces increased punishments for poor people, people with addictions, immigrants, and more is quite acceptable. I'd like to understand that POV better, even as I find it deeply disturbing.

Then I combine these thoughts with my every day work experience which regularly shows me that people are thinking about themselves and what is good for them---not about the greater good, the larger mission of our effort at work, or any other people.

(Un)fortunately, I have the kind of mind where I take all of these points of view seriously and live with all of their contradictions!

[boots-aregard]

See I don't think that way boots, I feel all (for the most part) deserve my respect unless otherwise proven that they do not.

I'm not sure which comment you are responding to. I certainly do not feel lack of respect for other people. I hope I didn't imply that anywhere. But I do believe that other people are a whole lot less interested in my doings and goings and havings than it is popular to think. Most other people don't know about me, and therefore can't be observed to even have an opinion. That's not a bad thing!

[demi]

Are people "doing the best they can"? Most would agree that world peace would be the best. Here is a quote from historians Will and Ariel Durant: "War Is one of the constants of history that has not diminished with civilization or democracy."

[kande50]

Having said that, not sure what sport hunting has to do with the best someone can

It's an example of the differences in what people believe that makes them think that others aren't doing the best they can.

[Ryeissa]

I used to be more idealistic and want everyone to be successful, do more/be more. then I realized they might be happy settling and content to be what they are.

I can only live my life how I want, sometimes i have to be ok letting things slide. I can't do the best I can in all areas all the time. It's the best I can THAT DAY. I have very very bad chronic exhaustion so at times I have to realize that might limit what my best *is* at times.

[Flight]

Everytime I read this thread, I"m sitting on the couch with my blankie eating chips.
Um, yeah I could probably do more

[WheresMyWhite]

Everytime I read this thread, I"m sitting on the couch with my blankie eating chips.
Um, yeah I could probably do more

But are you polite and courteous as you eat your chips and offer to share if appropriate?

To me, that's doing your best

[Koolkat]

About being JUDGEMENTAL:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQkHA3fHk_0

[Flight]

Everytime I read this thread, I"m sitting on the couch with my blankie eating chips.
Um, yeah I could probably do more

But are you polite and courteous as you eat your chips and offer to share if appropriate?

To me, that's doing your best

Well, the dogs certainly get their fair share. So, now I will think of it that way instead. Thankyou!