Can self-preservation and selfishness be two ends of the same spectrum? I mean, in my world, where I basically exist at the top of Maslow's pyramid, I'm not focused on the actual literal not-dying part of self-preservation. Well, not as much as I am on the psychological coping mechanism part. Both are important, but the coping mechanism is definitely more relevant here.
So, can self-preservation and selfishness be at two extremes of the same spectrum? Both are focused on the self, and both are ways of protecting oneself...although one is more socially acceptable than the other. Both keep others away, or out...both keep us from being vulnerable...weak. On the flip-side, both can keep others in and can help to give us strength. So, are they extremes on the same spectrum? Are they closer than that?
Or rather, are they one in the same? You know, like having baggage vs. having a past. Is self-preservation how we protect ourselves in a healthy manner as opposed to doing in a manner that is destructive? Is the difference in the HOW? Rather than in the WHAT? Does the difference boil down to being respectful of others and being aware of how our actions impact them?
5/25/14
Mmm, eggs & salsa, ham, sweet potato hash browns, and tomato
5/26/14
cheeseburger and macaroni salad....and numerous brownie cupcakes (not pictured)
5/27/14
savory chicken, veggies, and fruit
it's not delivery, it's DiGiorno...
So, can self-preservation and selfishness be at two extremes of the same spectrum? Both are focused on the self, and both are ways of protecting oneself...although one is more socially acceptable than the other. Both keep others away, or out...both keep us from being vulnerable...weak. On the flip-side, both can keep others in and can help to give us strength. So, are they extremes on the same spectrum? Are they closer than that?
Or rather, are they one in the same? You know, like having baggage vs. having a past. Is self-preservation how we protect ourselves in a healthy manner as opposed to doing in a manner that is destructive? Is the difference in the HOW? Rather than in the WHAT? Does the difference boil down to being respectful of others and being aware of how our actions impact them?
Mmm, eggs & salsa, ham, sweet potato hash browns, and tomato
cheeseburger and macaroni salad....and numerous brownie cupcakes (not pictured)
savory chicken, veggies, and fruit
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