There is a growing mindset that says success must be hidden and privilege must be apologized for. As if doing well in life is something to feel guilty about. This way of thinking pressures people to shrink themselves, to pretend they are struggling, and to deny themselves enjoyment of what they have.
It is time to say this clearly: “You should never apologize for making it in life”.
Do not feel forced to look poor or suffer just to fit into what others think is acceptable. There is nothing good about shrinking yourself to keep others comfortable.
If you have a good start, a respected name, access to education, opportunities or inheritance, it is likely because someone before you was disciplined, wise, and willing to sacrifice.
“A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children” (Proverbs 13:22).
That is not chance, it is legacy passed down.
Yes, privilege is a real and complex thing. Some people start further ahead than others. That should be acknowledged. But acknowledgement should not turn into shame. You do not need to deny yourself the benefits of your work or your family’s work to prove compassion.
If you can afford a good phone, a car, a home, private school, healthcare or vacation, by all means go and get it. You worked for it. Do not suffer on purpose because others are not where you are.
And if you think you are not privileged, think again. You live in a free country, with peace, access to information, clean water, and the freedom to choose your path. That alone is privilege created by those before you. “Their blood waters our Freedom”.
Now it is your turn.
Work hard so your children do not have to start from zero. Accept that you may not fully enjoy the future you are building and that is okay. This is how generational progress is made. It always starts with one person, YOU.
So, Don’t Apologize.
Enjoy what has been built for you, and start building something better for those who come after you.
2 comments:
This whole post resonates so deeply with me. For a long time, I've struggled with downplaying my accomplishments out of fear of making others uncomfortable, but you articulated exactly why that's a destructive mindset,There is nothing good about shrinking yourself to keep others comfortable. You have given me a new way to think about this not as guilt, but as a motivation to keep working hard and ensuring my good start becomes a foundation for others. Thank you for this powerful encouragement to 'Don’t Apologize' and focus on building.
I am glad this has blessed your heart.
Post a Comment