Penthouse problems vs basement reality

Today I feel silly for making my problems seem so relevant and important. They are penthouse problems, problems associated with people who have absolutely everything they could ask for, yet they still complain.
In a country such as South Africa the only reason for complaining as middle to high class citizens is because of a lack of compassion, combined with being oblivious to your surroundings. These are the main contributors to many of our country’s problems and the reason why so many fortunate people seem to be unhappy.
Here are some simple comparisons that should make us all feel silly for complaining:
• I drink too much vs. I need to get water if we want to survive.
• The government is a joke, turn the channel vs. My home needs electricity and running water.
• I have bad habits such as smoking and gambling vs. I wish I had R30 for food.
• My house is too small and basic vs. I live in a shack with a single mum and two siblings.
• I need to stop eating junk food vs. I need to eat something to make the pain stop.
• I can’t function without enough sleep vs. I have to make my bed on the floor.
• I hate traffic vs. I wish I had my own car to drive to work.
• I hate my job vs. Do you need a garden boy or can I take out your trash?
• I work such long hours vs. I need to catch my taxi at 4am.
These are only a few of the shocking comparisons that everyday citizens need to make, and once we have taken these into consideration we might be able to make a mind shift and a decision to get our hands dirty.
In the Bible, Luke talks about a story of a rich man ignoring the needs of a beggar, eventually causing him to fall into the depths of hell, while the beggar ends up next to Abraham for he knew God.
Life is temporary and time is the one thing we cannot get back, what will happen when asked – What have you done with the time and talents I have given you? Did you reach out to those in need?
We as South Africans should be grateful for our surroundings as we have plenty of opportunity to live our biggest calling, which is to help those who cannot help themselves. There is no greater gift than being able to serve; it gives us purpose, freedom, perspective and appreciation.
A question that I will ask myself before complaining to my wife upon arriving home regarding one of my colleagues leaving the fridge open at work will be: Is this a penthouse problem or an actual real world problem? Let’s get real.

RYNHARDT STEENKAMP
Ballito