... I was one of the haves, and one of the secrets of being a have is not wasting your time on empathy

... I was one of the haves, and one of the secrets of being a have is not wasting your time on empathy

Peter S. Beagle, the renowned author of "The Last Unicorn," is known for his ability to weave intricate and captivating tales that delve into the depths of human emotion and experience. However, in his personal life, Beagle has also faced his own struggles and challenges, including financial difficulties and legal battles. In his essay "The Haves and the Have-Nots," Beagle reflects on his own experiences as a "have" and the impact that privilege and wealth can have on one's ability to empathize with others.

Beagle acknowledges that he has been fortunate in his life to have achieved a certain level of success and financial stability as a writer. He describes himself as one of the "haves," someone who has the means to live comfortably and pursue his passions without the constant worry of financial insecurity. However, Beagle also recognizes that this privilege comes with a cost – namely, the temptation to become complacent and disconnected from the struggles of those less fortunate.

In the essay, Beagle candidly admits that one of the secrets of being a "have" is not wasting your time on empathy. He acknowledges that it can be all too easy to become wrapped up in one's own concerns and pursuits, to the exclusion of others who may be in need. Beagle reflects on his own experiences of feeling disconnected from the suffering of others, and the guilt that can come with realizing that one has not done enough to help those in need.

Despite these challenges, Beagle also emphasizes the importance of empathy and compassion in bridging the gap between the "haves" and the "have-nots." He acknowledges that true fulfillment and happiness come not from material wealth, but from the connections we forge with others and the impact we have on the world around us. Beagle encourages his readers to look beyond their own privilege and to reach out to those in need, recognizing that true wealth lies in the ability to empathize and connect with others on a deeper level.