First World Problems

I'm not even sure if anyone read my blog, but since I haven't written an entry in almost a year, I'm not hopeful. Oh well. 

I've just been thinking about how ridiculous first world problems can be. Whoever coined the term FWPs had it right. Us fortunate few in developed countries have problems that the majority of the world only wished they had. They want them, we think they are nuisance. 

I complain about numerous things on a daily basis to anyone who will listen, and sometimes just in my head. I don't view myself as a negative person, more as someone who likes things their own way. 

Today I've complained about having to go sledding for a field trip at work. Yep, I got paid to go get a bit cold and wet and go down a hill thirty times with some rather cute kids. Unlike many people, I have a job so I'd better complain about it. 

I complained that I feel broke after sending half my paycheck home. I still have plenty of money to live on for the next month if I don't party every weekend. I have bills to pay and money to spare-I'd better complain about it.

I complained that school is too much reading. Heaven forbid that I've gotten to go to elementary school, high school, university and now am working on yet another degree. I'd better complain about it.

I complained I didn't feel like cooking dinner. I've had a long day at my job, getting paid to go sledding and berate children who didn't finish their homework. I'm tired and clearly lazy. I have a kitchen full of decent food, but I don't feel like cooking it. I'd better complain about it. 

I bet if you all (those imaginary people reading this) think about it, you've complained at least once today about something; the snow, the cold, your job etc. You know you have. If you're even reading this, you're more fortunate than the majority of the world. You have internet...but I bet you can find something to complain about in regards to it. 

My point is that after all of my complaining today, I took a moment to reflect. While the term first world problems has become popular, the truth is, problems are relative to your situation. Is there a difference between real problems and things to complain about? Yes. Is there anything wrong with complaining? No, unless you do it constantly about the same thing (think "Are we there yet? Are we there yet? How about now?"). 

Should I feel guilty about complaining about having to play in the snow when I didn't want to, even though there are people dying all over the world? I don't believe I should. Why is that? Problems are relative and as long as one is not ignorant of this fact and is able to understand the difference between actual problems verses things to complain about, I see nothing wrong in venting frustration.

Thoughts?