Arrogance and Entitlement

Because we can at times have the experience of being able to control things for a moment or two in our lives, there is a subtle way in which we can fall into telling ourselves stories about the way things are supposed to work out more generally. Planes are supposed to leave and arrive on time. My flight, underscore the “my,” is not supposed to be canceled because I have got to get where I am supposed to be by a particular time for such and such a reason. (Can you feel the indignation, the self-centeredness, and the self-importance rising up?) People are supposed to be reliable and do what they said they would, especially when dealing with me. Investments are supposed to increase in value. Children are supposed to be safe. Our bodies are supposed to stay healthy if we eat right and exercise regularly. …