"深く病んだ社会にうまく順応することは健康の尺度ではない"

Being well-adjusted to a profoundly sick society isn't something we should celebrate. This quote is telling us that blending in with a flawed system doesn't make us healthy or successful. It’s like saying, just because you're good at fitting into a broken world, doesn’t mean you're thriving.

Think about the times we're living in. There's a constant push to fit into societal norms — get that high-paying job, buy that big house, wear the right clothes. But when the system itself is flawed, aligning with it might mean compromising your values or even your well-being. This quote is a wake-up call to rethink what we consider "normal."

Let's take a look back at history. This idea isn't new. Throughout time, there have been societies that were outright sick. Think about Nazi Germany. If you were well-adjusted there, it meant you were okay with, or even participated in, horrific acts. Being well-adjusted in that context was actually a sign of moral decay, not health. The same goes for times of great inequality or systemic corruption.

Now, picture a real-life example. Imagine a corporate employee who’s completely in sync with a company that exploits its workers. This employee gets promotions, earns bonuses, and everyone sees them as successful. But the company's practices are unethical — long hours, low pay, no regard for employee well-being. Fitting in here means supporting and perpetuating these practices. On the surface, the employee looks like they’ve got it all. But are they truly successful? Or are they just well-adjusted to a sick system?

So, how do we apply this wisdom to our lives today? Start by questioning the norms. What are you adjusting to? Is it something that's genuinely good for you and those around you? Or are you just going with the flow because it's easier? It’s crucial to develop your own values and stick to them, even if it means standing out. Surround yourself with people who challenge the status quo and think critically about the world.

Imagine you're at a family gathering, and everyone is raving about your cousin who just landed a high-paying job at a controversial company. Everyone praises their success, but you know about the company's dark side — maybe it’s environmental damage or worker exploitation. Instead of joining the praise, you bring up these issues (tactfully, of course). You might face some resistance, but you’re standing by your values. Over time, you might inspire others to think more critically too.

So, next time you feel the pressure to conform to something that doesn’t sit right with you, remember this quote. Being well-adjusted is not the goal if the system is flawed. Instead, aim to be a positive force for change. Think beyond the norms. Challenge what’s wrong and strive for what’s right. After all, true health and success are about living in alignment with your values, not just fitting in.