You will find as you grow older that the first thing needful to make the world a tolerable place to live in is to recognize the inevitable selfishness of humanity. You demand unselfishness from others, which is a preposterous claim that they should sacrifice their desires to yours. Why should they? When you are reconciled to the fact that each is for himself in the world you will ask less from your fellows. They will not disappoint you, and you will look upon them more charitably. Men seek but one thing in life -- their pleasure.
As we mature, it's essential to acknowledge the inherent selfishness in human nature. Expecting others to act selflessly is unrealistic since every individual prioritizes their own desires and pleasures. Understanding this can transform our expectations and interactions with others.
Once we accept that everyone acts in their self-interest, we will stop demanding more from them. This shift in perspective allows for greater empathy, as we realize that others are not obligated to sacrifice their needs for ours. Recognizing this can lead to more harmonious relationships and a more realistic view of human motivations.
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