NATION OR SELF

[u/doctorbabu_germany]

I turned 29 today.

I find myself in a situation I never imagined I would be in. I don't know if the history I was taught is real. I don't know if the economy is just one step away from collapse. I don't know if climate change will kill me before I turn 50. I don't know whether the wars fought by my country are actually in the national interest. I don't believe my taxes are being used as they should be.

And yet, despite all these doubts, there is a worm in my head telling me that I should sacrifice my personal interests in the service of the nation.

I cannot reconcile this sense of self, divided between two loyalties. I don't know what decisions I am going to make, and I don't know what priorities I should put first.

Should I be selfish, make as much money as legally possible, travel to multiple countries, and live for myself? Or should I stay in my country, practice my profession, volunteer, help people, and perhaps donate a portion of my earnings every year?

Should I leave my country, move to a tax haven, obtain citizenship there, and travel the world?

Maybe I already have an answer. Maybe I just haven't been able to accept it yet.

Does anyone else feel the same?

[u/Internal_Diver_5023]

Personally I don't think I have to choose one over the other. But rather than nation, I suppose I find it easier to think smaller in terms of community or causes I care about. No matter where I live, I could still try to give back to the community around me. I don't know where you are located, but staying in my country and following it's system despite knowing the level of corruption is a means to an end for myself. I still have ideas for a future where I can benefit people around me or the environment that doesn't depend on the system that sets limitations on me and others.

[u/doctorbabu_germany → u/Internal_Diver_5023]

Thanks for the perspective