To the Point ...

Friends, I want to say first and foremost that I appreciate the dialogue we had today. I am disappointed that no one took me up on my offer to start a forum regarding this topic, but I will take your remarks into deep consideration when approaching the statehouse later this fall. I may not hold huge sway under the rotunda but I'm working on that ;) Regardless, I thank you for the insight that was given. I think Rich said it very well when he commented that "... sometimes the disgrace is on the individual who won't contribute ...". My sentiments exactly; with the key word being "individual". I believe as people united we should be there for each other in every way possible. Why are we okay with the fact that we have such stark economic polar opposites existing among us? Why is it alright that one man struggles to find a box to house himself in, while another has temperature regulated tiling throughout his multi-million dollar house? Why can't someone get top quality care for an illness that shouldn't be allowed to dig them into their grave, while others live through diseases and tragedies we've been told are terminal? Why? It's sad people. It most definitely is a disgrace. I believe in just compensation for your contributions and work, but I also believe in taking care of people. I agree with all of you actually. Yes! I believe in education and health care for everyone. People should be able to feed and clothe their children. For God's sake, they should have a roof over their head and a pillow to rest on. I believe in this! And what's more than that, I know we can institute change that will provide for this. The only schism that exists between my thoughts and all of yours - or at least how I am reading it to be yours - is that I don't believe we should be so subservient as to instinctively turn to our government to provide the answers for us. We're smarter than this people. I promise you, we are! We as a people can find a way together to provide and take care of each other in a manner which doesn't require regulation or mandates. Seriously ... is that what you all want? You want the POTUS and the Congress telling you what to do and how your life should be lived and taken care of? "We" have to act. Not the government. I don't care what your political leanings are, all I care about is whether you come to the table or not. Bring your ideas, your thoughts and values with you and have an open mind. But show up! In closing I will say this; I cannot understand how it would be satisfactory to post a few words on a thread about a topic that is of concern to you, and then move on with life. I'm sure all of you hold this same contention. Regardless, action does not rest in the arms of conversations. In fact, it does not rest at all. (Please know I say that with tongue-in-cheek) :) much love, aka sends ..