Not Totally Inept

Breath-takingly insightful, if you're really dumb.

Thursday, December 30, 2004

Troubling Inconsistencies

Every so often, I will post something that doesn't completely blow. While we wait for that to happen again, here's this one. That's not to say the usual sprinkling of wisdom is not present. On the contrary--it's just that the wisdom is disguised. Consider: Raising kids is a widely accepted life course. A worthwhile endeavor, even. But raising hell is rarely thought to be as honorable, unless you're AC/DC. And even then, I know many who would object. The point is, current cultural mores do not permit raising hell on a *consistent* basis. Unless you are a local rock god on the scene, as I am, you can't get away with that kind of thing. I know that I rock with the fury, but why should I get special treatment?

Another example of hypocrisy in this country: Being a straight-shooter is thought to be a worthy, morally sound quality. However, shooting up is thought of as very different, no matter how accurate you are. Especially to the cops, who are only good at seeing black and white. But what if your brother or hamster died? Studies have consistently shown that heroin is the first step in the healing process. Little bit of gray area in there, I think it's safe to say.

If you're caught red-handed, that's different than finding a red herring, which is a false lead or clue in an investigation. Very different things, but both containing the word red. That is a fascinating paradox not easily solved in our lifetime.

My mom says that she loves me, but she is not in love with me, whatever that means. Not good enough.

Finally, consider carbon monoxide poisoning. If it happens to your boss, that can be neat. But when it happens to that checker at safeway who was pretty hot, it's not as great. Because you were really making progress with her. You were very close to closing the deal on that one.

If you can think of other blatant double standards, I'd be interested in hearing about them. This stuff needs to stop, I'm tired of it.

4 Comments:

At 9:42 PM, Blogger The Witch Doctor said...

you can drink coke at work and nobody'll look at you funny but if you decide to snort coke havoc will ensue

 
At 9:41 AM, Blogger Lois Lane said...

Getting smashed, good! Getting smashed by a drunk driver, bad! Be safe and have a happy new year! Here's to things not completely blowing in 2005! ;)
Lois Lane

 
At 9:46 AM, Blogger Rob said...

Another example: your posts blow, but my wife doesn't.

 
At 12:31 AM, Blogger Erik said...

bryan, i'm sorry to hear, may 2005 be more kind. :)

rae-that is a solid tip, no wonder everyone acts all weird when i try that. i wouldn't describe it as havoc, but it's definitely awkward. thanks again.

 

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