An Arizona sunset I captured recently.

The Case for Virtues Over Vice

And the high cost of being a selfish jerk.

I'm one of the best at spotting selfish jerks because I’m less of one than I used to be. In other words, I’m making progress.

Despite my best intentions to be a great person, I did some idiotic, selfish stuff as a younger man. Because of that, I suffered the consequences.

Let's call my two visits to hell on earth highly education. My deepest, darkest nights of the soul compelled me to find a better way to live.

Here's what I've learned.

The High Cost of Being Selfish

We all make mistakes. How we learn from our mistakes and incredibly selfish actions make the difference. When people act selfishly and prioritize their interests over the well-being of others, it can have negative consequences for both the individual and society as a whole.

At an individual level, acting selfishly can lead to strained relationships and a lack of fulfillment. When we prioritize our needs and desires above those of others, it can lead to a lack of connection and a sense of disconnection from others. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. Solitary confinement, isolation, is one of the cruelest forms of human punishment.