"Don't get mad, get even." - Joseph P. Kennedy Don't get even, get jewelry. -- Anonymous

Joseph P. Kennedy's infamous quote, "Don't get mad, get even," has long been a rallying cry for those seeking retribution and justice. It speaks to the human instinct to respond to wrongdoing with careful and calculated action, rather than letting emotions govern our reactions. Over the years, this phrase has been echoed in various contexts, from politics to personal vendettas, always carrying a underlying tone of strategic reprisal.

Yet, in a world increasingly driven by consumerism and materialism, a new twist on Kennedy's wisdom has emerged. An anonymous wit once quipped, "Don't get even, get jewelry." This play on words shifts the focus from vengeance to indulgence, suggesting that in the face of life's slights or hardships, a more fulfilling response might be to treat oneself to something beautiful or valuable. This phrase encapsulates the idea that material satisfaction can be a more gratifying and lasting way to cope with life's adversities than any form of payback.

The evolution of this quote from one of retaliation to one of luxury consumption reflects a broader cultural shift. In a society increasingly obsessed with material wealth and personal reward, the idea of getting "jewelry" rather than "even" resonates with those who view self-care and indulgence as important forms of resilience. This shift is further supported by the rise of "treat yourself" culture, where individuals are encouraged to invest in luxury items or experiences as a form of self-actualization and reward.

In this new context, getting "jewelry" instead of "even" might imply a more evolved form of getting back at life's challenges: by transforming one's personal setbacks into opportunities for growth and indulgence. Whether this shift is seen as a positive or negative development, it undoubtedly reflects a society redefining its priorities and methods of dealing with hardship. While Kennedy's advice spoke to a desire for equity and fairness, the newer version focuses on the individual's right to personal reward and satisfaction, highlighting the complicated relationship between adversity and self-indulgence in today's world.