I have committed to living my remaining years guided by the principles of The Four Immeasurables: one of which is remembering that any suffering in the world is also your suffering. I must shamefully admit I am not perfect and occasionally revel in Schadenfreude; the experience of pleasure, joy, or self-satisfaction that comes from learning of or witnessing the troubles, failures, pain, or humiliation of another. Case in point:
While driving north on Interstate 5 toward downtown Portland, I was cut off by a reckless driver weaving through traffic at a high rate of speed. I lamented the fact that there was no Highway Patrolman to view the incident and write the numbskull an expensive ticket! I was filled with unexpected joy when down the road I saw the reckless offender pulled over receiving a citation by a conscientious police officer. My schadenfreude skyrocketed at the thought of him going without food and clothing to pay the huge fine. I positively glowed with satisfaction!
But alas, I soon woke up and realized I was only dreaming. It is a good thing I woke up as I almost missed my exit and had to quickly cut across 4 lanes of traffic to squeak by in front of a school bus. The idiot bus driver was barely able to brake in time to avoid hitting me. The jerk must have been distracted. I wonder how some people get their driver license!
Oh well. Maybe next time I’ll get the justice I deserve!