Apathy?

Recently I was informed that I was caustic and apathetic. Since then I have been wondering why this offended me, what chord deep down did it strike? As anybody who knows me can tell you, I have been called a lot worse. I have been gradually driving myself deeper into despair because it had a ring of truth. Was it the "caustic" comment that cut me? All my life I have been fairly quick on my feet, verbally, and found out early doors that the best way to deflect focus from your shortcomings is to point out the absurdities of someone else. As I've got older and more enlightened, I still make fun, but confess to the odd twinge of guilt when I do.
But surely that wasn't it? I've been aware of that for a long time and am doing my best, if not to moderate it, then at least come to terms with it. It was definitely the apathy thing. There are times when my eyes glaze over and the conversation sounds like "blah". Surely I should have a greater stake in the things being discussed? Not necessarily. Do you know why?

Because its not fucking interesting.

I am 43 years old and one of the most valuable lessons I have learnt in that time is that I don't have to put up with bullshit. I have too many tangible issues in my life to fake curiosity or concern for someone elses fabricated concerns.

I say fabricated because I know damn well that there is no likelihood of contributing anything worthwhile to the solution of the problem. Life has led me to observe what I call the "Who Cares Most" principle. It's really just a simple observation about how people react to stimuli and consequence. People provided with the right stimulus in the absence of overwhelming consequence will make a contribution. Consequences like losing your job because you quit to go protesting the plight of caged bears, in my case, would be a deterrent. Some people may possess a greater passion for these things and will follow their words with action.

Otherwise it's just all hot air, worthy of passing discussion, maybe, but certainly not my attention. Moral of the story, if you would like to engage my interest, talk about something interesting. Otherwise my caustic side may resurface and I'll tell you exactly why I'm not listening.