Privilege
I may not explain this post in a "righteous way" but I will try to pen down my thoughts.
Sometimes I feel that I am ‘too’ privileged to achieve certain things. When a student from a village achieves something, everyone is so happy and satisfied. However, if a middle-class student achieves the same thing, the reactions are mixed. Some congratulate genuinely, some do it out of jealousy, and some do it just for the sake of it. The heartfelt wishes that the student receives come only from family and close friends.
I wonder how congratulations is not actually congratulations, sometimes it’s a phrase to pass when you don’t want to actually say something bad.
I feel like I am ‘too’ privileged to achieve something. I know an aunty who lives in a very poor household, but her son got into a government college, securing the future of his family. I feel like I have never had a situation like this in my life, so won't I achieve good? I am not that privileged to do everything I want, but still I feel weird. I fear that my cranky brain would think that only the unprivileged ones get to conquer and the privileged ones are in the queue. My brain is wrong, and I have to prove it.
Sometimes, it feels like when a girl from my college achieves something, everyone is genuinely happy for her. But when I achieve something, it seems like it's expected of me, and I don't receive the same level of appreciation. It leaves me wondering, don't I deserve recognition and appreciation too?
I wonder if I'll ever have to write an exam for a job and they ask about my background. I worry that if I don't have a sad story or lack of resources to share, I might not be selected because I'm considered 'too' privileged for the job.
I believe that effort is the most important factor in achieving success. Sometimes, I wonder if I am too privileged for certain things, but I don't think that's the case. Everyone is in their own place, and as long as I work hard, I will achieve my goals. If I don't succeed, at least I will have my answers.
Not everything in life can be planned out perfectly. Sometimes, things just happen without a clear plan. It's important to have empathy for others and to understand that privilege doesn't guarantee success for anyone.
Think again in this universe everyone has their different plate and according to their maybe deeds, efforts, kindness etc that plate is filled.
It's disheartening to feel under acknowledged and under recognized for achievements or sufferings just because they have a sadder story to tell, it's invalidating! I remember struggling with depression and no one cared but my classmate who also struggled with depression received a lot of empathy because everyone knew that her mom had cancer. But honestly, there is no such thing as not having trauma, everyone has their own problems. I've noticed the ones who receive recognition for the achievements or sufferings are those who are more vocal about the disadvantages that they have in life. I think that I shared my trauma stories related to my depression then perhaps my experiences would be more validated. But it is a difficult thing to do, and for now, I am ok with acknowledging myself and celebrating my own wins even if no one recognizes them as an achievement. Your experiences are valid, your achievements are worthy of recognition, don't let other's judgement bring you down!
Such an interesting topic to write about.
This was so relatable.
I also feel a little privileged sometimes.
Being a topper since I was in kindergarten has made others expectations reach a crazy level.
When I achieve something which is good enough for me. Others pass it on like it’s nothing. But when some other person (who’s not that privileged in terms of money and other things) achieves something similar. They cheer for him like he found the cure for cancer.
I felt so heard while reading this.
Subscribed for more. ✨♥️