Privilege is a quiet thing. It’s like sunlight filtering through blinds, gentle and unbothered by the noise outside. It lets you see your world through a lens that’s clear and calm, while the world outside might be tangled in shadows. But the thing about sunlight? It’s not enough to just bask in it. If you turn your face to it, you’ll see how much of the world you’ve been missing.
The Comfort of Ignorance
When things go smoothly for us, it’s easy to think that everything is fine, or that others just need to work harder or figure it out. But here’s the thing—real life isn’t like that. There are people doing their best, working tirelessly, but still struggling with systemic issues beyond their control.
Maybe you don’t see the sweat of a factory worker, or the endless hours spent commuting to a job that barely covers the bills. But just because you’re not in the storm doesn’t mean it’s not pouring on someone else. Privilege is the silent comfort of a room that’s always warm—until you notice that the door’s been closed to others.
Selective empathy can sometimes feel like putting blinders on. It’s like hearing about a problem, nodding in agreement, and moving on without actually considering how to help. It’s easy to focus on what affects us, missing the bigger picture.
Seeing Beyond Our Own Lens
There’s nothing wrong with having a good life. But when we start to ignore the hardships others face, we do more than just miss the point. We turn away from the chance to be a part of something bigger. We lose sight of the fact that empathy isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity.
The world isn’t just ours to enjoy; it’s ours to shape, to make kinder, to make fairer. When life is easy, it’s easy to forget that others may be struggling just to take a step. And when we fail to acknowledge that struggle, we stop seeing how connected we truly are.
Check Your Privilege
The truth is, no one should be expected to endure hardship just because it’s not part of our reality. The ripple effect of small actions can change a lot, and it starts with a shift in perspective. Whether you’re speaking up, donating, or simply learning more about the struggles others face—these actions matter. Privilege can be a powerful force for good when we stop using it to isolate ourselves and start using it to bridge gaps.