[MD] Contents of Moq_Discuss Digest, Vol 21, Issue 8

[Ham Priday]

Marsha --


> On the one hand you write criticizing the general public, "It isn't
> that that our elected bureaucrats are operating in secret, but that
> the general public could care less about what's going on in
> Washington until election time comes around.  And then they echo the
> sound bytes of politicians, typically the negative ones about their
> opponents."
>
> On the other hand you write criticizing those who do care enough to
> be upset when leaders abuse power, "My first question would be: Where
> on this planet would they find comparable freedom and
> opportunity?  Then I would ask: Why don't they move there?"  Love it
> or leave it?   Is that what you're suggesting?
>
> It seems you've put citizens in a lose/lose situations.


I admire people who care (about people, things, ideas), and I do think that 
mainstream Americans are largely ignorant of events and ideologies that are 
not an immediate part of their everyday lives.  I hear a lot of complaints 
that seem to mimmick what the politicians are saying but don't have much 
thought behind them.  For example, the idea that because we are a rich and 
powerful nation we "ought to provide" free medical care, free college 
tuition, decent housing, guaranteed job security, etc., for everyone, 
ignores that fact that Government produces no income except what is 
extracted from the taxpayers.  None of these objectives is mandated by the 
U.S. Constitution.  Even federal taxation was added as an amendment (to 
raise money for the Civil War).

Lobbyists, CIA bungling, and K-Street funding are not what is bringing 
America down.  The problem is the eroding value of individual initiative in 
our coddled society and its affect on the will of its citizens.  If we lose 
the will to preserve our culture, control our borders, defend our freedom, 
live within our means, and strive for excellence, we shall leave a shattered 
legacy for our children.

The politicians will promise anything that will help them get elected.  But 
if Americans look to Government as their cradle-to-grave provider, what is 
their incentive to become self-reliant?  The influx of millions of 
immigrants (legal and illegal) demanding entitlements only adds to the 
burden of the productive members of our society.  What is THEIR incentive to 
become self-sufficient?  I see the U.S. drifting rapidly toward the 
socialism that has weakened the Scandinavian countries, Canada, and much of 
Europe.  The "power" that has made America great, which you seem to 
disparage, is the determination and industry of its people.  I do not wish 
see this land of opportunity reduced to a socialistic state.

Them's my thoughts.  I expect you to find something disagreeable about them.

Regards,
Ham