Hacker News Reader

Comment by mikearagua | Hacker News Reader

This is wishful thinking. You could also get hit by a truck (or a scooter), live in the present. My wife recently got cancer she's in great physical condition. And you'll say "on average" blah blah blah and I'll say only the present is guaranteed.

View on HN

Sure, I had to sacrifice some of that "in the moment" happiness while getting myself to a manageable state, but I don't regret a single moment of it.

It's such a cop out to say that you're living in the moment. Few people, I'd even venture to say that no one looks back on self improvement with regret. Discipline contributes to happiness. Don't try to demotivate people to justify your own unwillingness to improve yourself.

Not rue, homelessness and welfare is also garunteed should you not save. There are many things which can kill you in this world every day. There is many more which can simply maim your ability to work and provide for your family.

The present may be the only time that exists, but what matters most is the quality of life in it.

One contends even in such an unfortunate event as your wife is experiencing, her fitness and otherwise excellent health means through treatment she'll enjoy a higher quality of life than someone out of shape with a body not ready for the battle.

It is better for your happiness to have hope about the future than to just give up. Unless you've been diagnosed with a terminal illness, you should prepare (plan and help enable) for a long life, because the alternative is just too depressing.

Reply on news.ycombinator.com