Suck It Up And Deal.

I used to use that phrase a lot when I was younger. Then for some reason I stopped. Perhaps because it could be a bit offensive, and my maturity set in. But really, it's fully applicable - perhaps now more than ever.

We've become such a society of whiners. Privileged whiners - which I suppose are really the only kind there are. Those without privilege may complain, but I doubt they whine as much.

We whine about our lack of our overwrought scheudles, our boredom, our lackluster marriages, our lonely singledoms, our aching backs, our neighbors choices, our kids friends, our kids in general, our parents, our government, our community, our taxes, our jobs, our shapes, our hair, our progessing age, our youth, our limitations, our lack of direction, our traditions, our lack thereof, etc.

Where else in the world do we have so many kids that are too fat; so many people that are too skinny by choice; so many people with multiple degrees that can't get jobs because they can't find one that fits their ideal vision; so many failed marriages; so many people spending so much money they don't have on things that don't really matter; so many in rehab; so many taboos on natural human behavior; so many hang ups derived from religion; so many people who want to be heard, but refuse to listen?

Good grief, people.

Where else in the world can you wake up and, for the most part, not worry if your house will be standing by the end of the day? That the water that comes to your house is clean (and comes at all)? That the grocery store is stocked with food, and you don't have to fight anyone for it? That you can take your kids to school and expect to pick them up or see them come home safely, without having to ford a river, avoid dangerous animals, or dodge bullets? That you can choose to waste your time and not suffer any immediate consequences? That you can pop a readily available pill for a head/back/anywhere ache or drink an elixer that will help you sleep at night? That you can express your opinion, no matter how idiotic or wrong it may be, loud and proud, and either be heard or ignored, but regardless, go on your merry way?

I'm not saying it's perfect everywhere. I'm not saying we've all got it so good. But for the most part, as Americans - we take so much for granted. And yes, there are parts of this country that are blighted and troubled, and need significant help. But even in the worst of the worst, there are options. You just have to be willing to see them.

But for those of us not in those most dire of situations? Suck it up and deal, people. Suck it up and deal.