Self-deprecation is worth its weight in smoldering phoenix-ashes and baby unicorn tears.
or; inquiring minds want to know.
Published on August 8, 2007 By SanChonino In Philosophy
In many recent conversations with members of the illiterate horde that makes up the vast majority of my generation, I've encountered some interesting feedback.

Many people, upon hearing my intent to receive a Ph.D. in Spanish Literature to be able to teach at the University level, seem taken aback. Often, it's at best maligned, at worst ridiculed.

This has caused me a little bit of consternation the last few weeks. It's been called "worthless" by more than a couple of people. And, you know, that's cool. I don't really care too much about your opinions concerning my career plans, but it's gotten me thinking.

What is a "worthless" job? Obviously, it must be worth something to somebody - otherwise, they wouldn't be paid to do it.

But I open the questioning to the lot of you - what do you consider a "worthless" job? And, more importantly . . . why?

Comments (Page 3)
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on Aug 26, 2008

I think that every individual needs to decide what "worthless" means for themselves. There were SO many times when I heard from my parents, my teachers, everyone, that the things I wanted to do in life were worthless. I even tried it their way for a while, and while I am glad for the experience, what "they" consider success is for me worthless.

I'm reading a book now called Soulshaping about finding your own path (by Jeff Brown http://soulshaping.com) here's a quote you may find helpful:

Success is simply the completion of a soul step, however unsightly it may be. We have finished what we started when the lesson is learned. What a fear-based culture calls a wonderful opportunity may be fruitless and misguided for the soul. Staying in a passionless relationship may satisfy your need for comfort, but it may stifle the soul. Becoming a famous lawyer is only worthwhile if the soul demands it. It is an essential failure if you are called to be a monk this time around. If you need to explore and abandon 10 careers in order to stretch your soul toward its innate image, then so be it.

I say, if you feel called to it, you gotta do it. Even if you never end up using your studies in a traditional way!

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