advice from an Arcatan.

You are operating in your own self-interest. It is about money – that is to say survival – and social status – also linked to survival. Any notion that your root motivations are other than about money and social status are misconceptions. The sense of failure you feel when things don’t work they way you want them to is the primal fear that the situation will not meet your most basic needs, and the fear of social ostracization. All crimes, unethical behaviors and acts of unkindness are motivated by the very same self-interests that motivate good work, caring for others, etc. Those who commit socially unacceptable offenses are no different than you, at all, in any way. There is no evil, only need and fear. Occasionally, there are true acts of kindness – those are always accompanied by a genuine, heart-filling emotion for all parties involved. If that genuine emotion is not present in the action, then it is about money and social status. Don’t judge yourself for being motivated by those basic needs – they are perfectly natural and good. Also, don’t fool yourself into thinking you are motivated otherwise, by some so-called “higher calling.” That only stratifies communities. Instead, see that your cooperation with others is motivated by healthy self-interest, and notice that by working to enhance the health, wealth and security of others, your own needs are better met. Occasionally, while you are doing that, you will encounter genuine acts of kindness – indicated by a strong heart-filling emotion. Those moments are precious – cherish them – and then keep up the good work.