Life is Unfair.

There is injustice, inequality and more.

It is not uncommon to hear children proclaim that it's not fair when something they dislike occurs. Most of us can remember this from our childhood. It could happen if the teacher disciplined the entire class because one

classmate committed an infraction. I clearly remember childhood events when all of us were playing a street game, and one are more of us kids objected that something was unfair, even being called by our parents to return home for dinner. When someone exclaims, "Hey, that's not fair," it often springs from a deep-seated perception of injustice or inequity in a situation. This reaction can be traced back to a fundamental human desire for fairness, equality, and respect in our interactions and societal structures. The roots of such an outcry can vary widely, reflecting the diverse contexts in which people perceive unfairness.

At the heart of this sentiment lies the discrepancy between expected and received treatment. People have inherent notions of justice, which are shaped by cultural, societal, and personal beliefs and values. When an individual's expectations of fair treatment are not met, it prompts an emotional and cognitive response, highlighting a breach in their sense of justice. This discrepancy can occur in various scenarios, from the distribution of resources and opportunities to interpersonal relationships and legal or societal norms.

The concept of fairness is closely tied to the principle of equity, which involves an equal and just treatment of individuals. However, what is equitable can differ from one person to another based on their perspective, experiences, and the context of the situation. For example, in a work environment, if two employees perceive their contributions to be equal but notice a disparity in recognition or rewards, one might voice that it's not fair, pointing to a perceived lack of acknowledgment or appreciation for their efforts.

Social comparisons also play a significant role in the perception of fairness. People often evaluate their situations relative to others, and a sense of unfairness can emerge when they see others receiving better treatment without a clear, justifiable reason, such as salary, working conditions, respect, and recognition.

Moreover, the feeling of unfairness can be amplified in situations where people feel powerless or voiceless. When individuals believe they have no means to challenge or change an unjust situation, the frustration and sense of injustice can become more pronounced, leading them to vocalize their perceptions of unfairness as a plea for recognition and a call for change.

Empathy and a sense of community also influence perceptions of fairness. People may say, "Hey, that's not fair," not only in response to their own experiences but also when witnessing the unfair treatment of others. Fairness and justice are not just personal issues but collective, societal ones, where the treatment of one individual or group can resonate with and affect many.

The statement "Hey, that's not fair" reflects the complex interplay between individual expectations, societal norms, and the inherent human desire for justice and equality. It underscores the importance of empathy, communication, and a collective commitment to addressing and rectifying injustices, whether they are personal or observed in the wider society.

Life, with its vast array of experiences and encounters, often presents itself in shades of complexity and unpredictability, making the notion of fairness a subject of contemplation and debate. The fabric of our existence is interwoven with moments that resonate with joy and triumph. Yet, it's also punctuated by trials and adversities that seem to defy the principles of justice and equity.

Worst of all was the time when my wife was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and went to the infusion center for chemotherapy. I drove her, and I remember one occasion when I said to her you know it's not fair that this happened to you. Her response was immediate. She said to me did you see all the young people in line waiting for their treatment. They, too, had cancer, she said, and many of them looked extremely sick and would probably die soon. Of course, she was correct, and that is the nature of life. Life is not fair.

One fundamental aspect of life's perceived unfairness lies in the disparities at birth. Individuals are born into vastly different circumstances, with some inheriting wealth, access to quality education, and a nurturing environment, while others find themselves in situations marked by poverty, limited opportunities, and challenging living conditions. These initial disparities can set trajectories that are difficult to alter, affecting an individual's health, educational outcomes, and life chances.

Health, both physical and mental, serves as another poignant illustration of life's unpredictability and injustice. Illnesses and health conditions can strike indiscriminately, altering lives without warning and, often, without a discernible reason. The randomness with which health issues can affect anyone, regardless of their lifestyle, choices, or desires, underscores a stark aspect of life's unfairness.

Opportunities and achievements, too, are only sometimes a reflection of merit or effort. While hard work and dedication play significant roles in success, factors such as luck, timing, and social connections often have a substantial impact. Consequently, deserving individuals may sometimes be overlooked or undervalued, while others ascend to positions of success and recognition because of fortunate circumstances beyond their control.

Fairness often eludes us in relationships and social interactions. People may face prejudice, discrimination, or injustice based on characteristics over which they have no control, such as race, gender, sexuality, or socioeconomic background. These biases can lead to exclusion, marginalization, and a lack of empathy, further entrenching the divides that contribute to life's perceived unfairness.

The human condition itself, with its inherent vulnerability to loss and grief, brings to light the indiscriminate nature of suffering. Losing loved ones, the end of significant relationships, and the inevitable confrontations with mortality are universal experiences that test our notions of fairness, often leaving us with more questions than answers.

Yet, amidst these reflections on the unfair aspects of life, there lies a potential for growth, resilience, and compassion. The recognition of life's inherent unpredictability and inequity can foster a deeper empathy towards others, motivating actions and initiatives aimed at creating a more just and equitable world. In navigating the challenges and injustices, there's an opportunity to find meaning, to connect with others on a profound level, and to contribute to a collective effort towards alleviating the disparities and hardships that many face.

While undeniable, life's unfairness also invites introspection, resilience, and a commitment to fostering fairness and justice in the spaces we inhabit. Through collective effort and individual resilience, we strive to create a balance in an inherently unbalanced world, seeking to imbue our shared existence with a sense of fairness and equity.