The Artful Snob: Save Your Karma

A snob is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as snob: (snob) n.

1. One who tends to patronize, rebuff, or ignore people regarded as social inferiors and imitate, admire, or seek association with people regarded as social superiors.
2. One who affects an offensive air of self-satisfied superiority in matters of taste or intellect.

You may know someone, or a group of people, who are best described as succumbing to this human condition. Without being a snob yourself about it, it's clear to most of us that behaving like a snob not only leaves you friendless, but gives you a false sense of security. It's often the most insecure, after all, that 'thrive' in this very lonely world of snobbery. They are first to give their opinion on everything imaginable, and are often completely detached from what the mood or people around them are attuned to. In an effort to outdo anything and everyone, they will step into any conversation or social event with an air of absolute righteousness. Pretentious? Not even close; the Artful Snob is someone who has nothing to hold on to but their desperate need to declare the inferiority of others.

First to judge, first to criticize, and outwardly spoken on subjects they know nothing about, the Artful Snob's entire world centers around how they stand on the social ladder. They are creative liars, savvy contortionists of the truth, and will likely be surprised when somebody outdoes them. They are unlikely to socialize or mingle with anyone of real challenge, as this is a threat to their very existence. Narcissism and snobbery go hand in hand; the narcissist thinks, and truly believes, that the world is their playground and they are always doing the right thing. They may often be described as self-centered, but this is an understatement; ego-centered with a touch of a mania would be a better description.

And, running all cylinders on your ego is one dangerous karmic state. This personality is at the mercy of constant criticism and judgment, and because of this sad and painful state, will often resort on extending this same behavior and critical judgment towards others. Superiority is of utmost concern; there is nothing more important, not even honesty or hard work, that will gain the attention of the Artful Snob more than the attainment of a make-believe status. Is it any wonder that many narcissists are also classified as psychopaths?

Perpetuating their own cycle, the Artful Snob contributes only to the bottom line; get the most out of the most people, for the stability of their own ego. Ignore reality at all costs, and do what it takes to make sure that your entire existence is undisturbed by anyone or anything that may be cause for concern. Don't ask questions, don't challenge, and certainly don't outdo what the Artful Snob has declared. Retaliation of the ugliest kind is often a result.

The Artful Snob lives in many forms; you'll find them in different social segments, various generations of life, different backgrounds and groups. They continue to cause suffering upon others, simply because they are suffering deeply themselves. Karma is no joke; the negative emotions and states of jealousy, envy, deception, deceit, and general cruelty run paramount in these disturbed individuals' lives. Steer clear of these personalities, and rest assured that you will have a clear conscience as your constant companion. No amount of money, social rank, status, or prestige come close to the state one can best describe as alignment with your self.

What goes around, always comes around.