Strange Letter # 13--A Letter to a Word You Love

Dear Schadenfreude,

Leave it to the Germans to come up with a word for taking pleasure in someone else's pain. I would say you must have a tough time with it in life, but somehow I suspect you have a large sadistic streak. No self-loathing with you lot, huh?

Or do you? Taking pleasure I the misfortune of others is a bullying way to make one’s self feel better. It is a variation of misery loves company. It can be the result of strong feelings of envy, too. I would hate to think that poorly of you, though. Surely you have some redeeming qualities. Surely it is not that bad to enjoy the misfortunes of evil men, right?

I try to dwell on the Golden Rule, karma, or whatever religious or philosophical name you want to call it. The world would be a better place if we all did. You should try it, too. You would have a lot more free time I you convinced fewer people to indulge in you. You could take up a hobby then. Like watercolor or planting azaleas or something. At least consider the possibilities.

Liebe Grüße,
Jamie