I have worked VERY hard my entire life, thank you, and I know quite a few people like me. Hard work very often benefits others, not the worker.

I know just as many people who do not work hard and who have never worked hard who enjoy much greater prosperity.

I have a better life than many others if measured in a non-monetary fashion -- a good marriage, loving kids and grandkids, interesting friends and more -- but I'm looking at a very grim old age.