The State of the Union

I started the year on a positive note, but quickly became so disgusted with our government and our society that I had to take a break from writing. I'm back and I hope what I post makes you think and act. 

President Obama recently gave his State of the Union address.  The US Constitution, Article II, Section 3 requires that he give a State of the Union to Congress, but it does not say in what form or specify details on the content.  Ever since Woodrow Wilson, US Presidents have given the State of the Union in the form of a speech to a joint session of Congress.  Nearly all of them take the form of an argument in favor of the president’s policies, emphasizing what seems to be working and ignoring or placing the blame on someone else for what isn’t working.

President Obama’s 2014 State of Union address was no different.  He spoke of the new jobs created during the past four years, implying that this is the result of his policies.  He bragged that, “our deficits cut by more than half,” while failing to acknowledge that the deficit is larger now than when he took office. He also pointed out that more than nine million Americans have signed up for health insurance or Medicaid coverage, a seemingly positive sign for his Affordable Care Act.

The President’s speech was not all sunshine and rainbows, though.  He did point out that the economic inequality is greater and that upward mobility has stalled. But, he assured us that he has proposals that will speed growth and strengthen the middle class, and he is willing take steps to enact these proposals, with or without action from Congress.  He also stated that he is willing to use his authority to protect our pristine federal lands and strengthen protection of our air, our water, and our communities.

I allow that the President’s State of the Union is based on his perspective.  But, I have a different perspective, so I believe the actual State of the Union is much different than the President’s view.

I see a Senate that, until late last year, failed to pass a budget every year since 2009.  I see a Congress and President that are willing to expand government to provide more social insurance and increase deficit spending to unsustainable levels.  I notice a President and Congress happy to increase the extent to which the federal government is involved in the everyday life of its citizens.   But do they make our lives better?   The EPA significantly increases the number of regulations with which businesses must comply, yet the rationale for these increases are based on unproven science or no proof of benefit is forthcoming.

At the President’s urging, Congress has passed a set of health insurance coverage laws that may benefit a small segment of the population, but increase the health insurance premiums for many Americans.  Additionally, the many people who previously had health insurance have been dropped by their carrier because the government has judged their policies as substandard.  Furthermore, because of the nature of the laws, many will lose jobs or have work hours slashed so employers can avoid costly penalties.  Medicaid eligibility was expanded to allow more people to receive health care at taxpayer expense.

I regard many of the things happening within the Obama Administration as abuses of power.  The targeting of conservative organizations by the IRS, and the failure of the Administration to enforce immigration laws, yet suing a state that tries to enforce those laws are just two examples.  The President stated in his State of the Union address that he is willing to use executive power to bypass Congress if it doesn’t pass legislation that he wants enacted.  He’s altered the work requirements of the 1996 welfare reform act and postponed enforcement of certain provisions of the Affordable Care Act.  Even his Attorney General, Eric Holder, stated in a New York Times interview that state attorneys general do not have to enforce laws they disagree with.  If the US Attorney General, who is the chief law enforcement of the United States, says others do not have to enforce laws, do citizens have to obey laws they don’t agree with?

Other actions, such as the FCCs proposal to monitor print and broadcast media organizations, the NSA’s surveillance and collection of phone data, and the National Labor Relations Board’s case against Boeing for moving part of its manufacturing to a non-union state are other examples of abusive or, perhaps, illegal government behavior.  But wait, that’s not the most disappointing part of the State of the Union.

What disappoints me is the state of our American society.  We are more divisive racially, culturally, and ideologically than ever before.  We won’t engage in open and honest discourse over issues such as race, economics, or culture for fear of offending others.  We are so afraid of being labelled “racist’, “hate monger” or “bigot” that we shun any chance to honestly discuss issues and we miss opportunities to find solutions to problems.

Far too often, I hear people speak of tolerance and embracing diversity, yet when someone has an opinion that runs counter, tolerance goes out the window.  If a person wants a smaller government that provides less social insurance, is he really a terrorist or anarchist, as members of Congress have suggested, or is he a concerned citizen who may have something of substance to say?  If a Christian does not embrace the gay lifestyle, is he a hate monger?  Or perhaps he is merely living by the tenants of his faith.  If a Muslim does not embrace the gay lifestyle, does that change things?  What about a wealthy business owner, who worked and scrimped and saved to get where she is today? Is she a greedy “one percenter” or is she an example of someone achieving the American dream?  Name calling and ugly labels have replaced intelligent and articulate communication.

Most disappointing of all is our willingness to sit by and let government expand beyond its constitutional boundaries.  I’m not sure why this is happening.  Could it be that we don’t want to work and provide for ourselves and prefer that someone else provide the care and feeding and other “free” stuff, even if it means a loss of liberty?  Are we so envious of others’ accomplishments that we would rather take or destroy what they’ve earned instead of earning it ourselves? Perhaps we are so acclimatized to mediocrity that we simply rather wallow in stupidity and ignorance instead of trying to make a difference.

Yes, my vision of the State of the Union is much different than President Obama’s.  And I fear that if we don’t do something to change the present state of the union, the future state of the union will look a lot like the dystopian society that Orwell presented in the novel 1984.  I plan to fight that future by being an informed and active citizen and voter.  Will you?

Happy New Year

It’s a brand new year, which means many are trying hard to keep their New Year’s resolutions.  Many of the resolutions people make are directed towards self-improvement such as losing weight, being more organized, or managing time better.  Some resolutions are geared towards dropping bad habits, such as quitting smoking or drinking less alcohol.  Many resolutions are geared towards improving personal finances or career improvement.

I’m not sure how many people make New Year’s resolutions but a 2007 study showed that 88% of people who make resolutions fail to keep them.  Frank Ra, author of A Course in Happiness, states that “resolutions are more sustainable when shared, both in terms of with whom you share the benefits of your resolution, and with whom you share the path of maintaining your resolution.”

I am making only a few resolutions this year but I want to share them in hopes that I will be successful in maintaining them.  My resolutions are:

• Spend more time in prayer and spiritual study
• Let the people who are important to me know of their importance to me more often
• Spend more time finding joy in my everyday existence and dwell less on the ugly
• Spend more time with the people who matter and less time with the people who don’t
• Be more polite and nice to people
• Be more patient

 It’s a short list but I believe it to be a challenging list of resolutions for me.  I ask for your encouragement and prayers in maintaining these resolutions.  And I hope that 2014 brings you peace, health, and prosperity, as well as success in keeping your resolutions.

Happy New Year! 

A War for Power

Recently, I hiked the Shiloh National Military Park as part of a Boy Scout outing.  I had been there before and had learned about Bloody Pond and the Hornet’s Nest, that there were over 23,000 casualties and that the battle was a turning point of the War between the States in the West.  One statistic mentioned by the park ranger surprised me.  He stated that 90% of combatants at Shiloh did not own slaves. One of my Scouts wanted to know why they were fighting if they didn’t own slaves?  I wondered that same thing.

I did some research and found that the park ranger’s data, while true, skewed the picture just a little bit.  War is a young man’s game so most of the combatants had not yet amassed enough wealth to buy slaves.  However, only about 25% to 30% of combatants came from slave-owning households, but some of these soldiers served in the Union Army.  So what was the point of the war?

Northerners, especially those of the Republican Party, wanted to prevent the spread of slavery into the western territories, not abolish it.  Southerner slaveholders did not want any restrictions on the spread of slavery.  Slavery was the source of their wealth and power; 60% of the wealthy Americans were slaveholders in the South.  Any restrictions would limit their power and wealth.  But, while the rich and powerful benefited from slavery, many in the South were harmed by a slave economy.  The small farmer couldn’t compete with the large plantations due to higher labor and production costs.  Some economists believe that the slavery actually stifled economic growth in the South. So why did people hurt by a slave economy fight to continue it?

Today we have a group of rich and powerful who want to continue a way of life that benefits them but not the public at large.  When there is an increase in government social programs, politicians benefit because they can provide “free” services and programs that “benefit” large numbers of voters.  Because of their largesse, they help ensure their re-election because the recipients are likely to vote for them again.  The more they are re-elected, the greater their seniority and the greater their power.  They will continue to approve increased government spending and pork-barrel legislation that that will help their re-election, regardless of the benefit or harm to the American people.

However, the benefits are not free and the pork-barrel legislation costs real money; all are paid with the taxes and fees collected from wage earners and business owners.  When higher taxes, increased regulations, or greater entitlement program spending stifle the economic growth, they blame the greedy rich or the big business for not paying enough taxes. They pass legislation in the name of helping the poor, but as many economists will tell you, these social programs, such as Obamacare and higher minimum wage laws, actually stifle the economy and limit the job opportunities for poor.  So why do those hurt by these policies and actions continue to vote for these politicians?

Could it be that, much like 150 years ago, we have been lead to believe by those in power that the way of life we’ve known for so long is the “best” for them?  Are we misled by the media, like we were 150 years ago, that the status quo is good and any change would be catastrophic instead of an improvement?  Or, are we simply too uninformed about the actions of our elected officials and consequences of those actions to make responsible decisions in the voting booth?

Increased government spending and increased reliance on government largesse has grave consequences.  The greater our dependence on the government, the easier it is for the government to take away our rights and freedoms.  History is replete with examples of this, but we must stop history from repeating itself.

To stop this, we must limit the power of the politicians.  We put these politicians in office with our votes and we can remove them from office in the same manner.  We must be well-informed voters and vote for candidates that will back legislation that benefits the whole country, increases economic opportunities for everyone, and decreases reliance on government subsidies and benefits.  Government policies shouldn’t benefit only select groups.

The war ravaged the South and it took nearly 100 years to recover economically.  Let’s avoid the consequences by fixing the problems now.  Be an active, well-informed voter and vote for what is best for the country.

Dream Big

Another post by John Gault

Do we dream big?  Do we settle?  At what point along our journey do we give up?  I never thought I’d be where I am in life.  My beginnings were humble, growing up on a farm.  Now, I work on teams with high-energy, scientist and engineers.  It wasn’t a quick or painless journey to arrive at this point in my professional career.  I worked really hard at it.  I’ve built my expertise by growing from the lessons learned from one project to apply them to the next project.  Honestly, I never dreamed big enough.  I never considered this career.

I wonder where we would be as a country if each of us dreamed big, then applied ourselves to making that dream a reality.  Fulfilling dreams often requires a lot of hard work and tenacity.  We, as a society, spend a lot of time talking ourselves out of our dreams before we start.  We can build an extensive list of why our plans will fail just to justify accepting where we are and why it is our destiny.  Either we don’t have enough money, live in the wrong time or place, don’t know the right people or haven’t been blessed with the skills.  We then settle, wrap ourselves up in the comfort of mediocrity and pass through life as an inconsequential member of society.  

Not that we don’t each influence outcomes, affect others or hold a job, and raise a family.  But shouldn’t we aspire for more than Andy Warhol’s 15 minutes of fame as a measure of a successful life?  Accepting the “hand you’re dealt” is a copout.  We each have gifts, skills and abilities that can change the world.  I wonder, if you picture yourself on your deathbed, would you be satisfied that you accomplished all that you wanted and you were ready to go?  If not, list those things that come to mind and build a plan to accomplish them. Build your bucket list, no matter how unlikely you are to accomplish them.   

Another important measure of a life is realized when you ask yourself who will be with you at the end of your life?  Will you be surrounded by a roomful of people that love you?  If not, grow or fix those relationships.  Holding a grudge is such a waste of time and energy.  I know some people that are experts at holding grudges for the tiniest slight.  I’ve watched this behavior fester and grow, depriving those people involved of happiness and opportunities.    

So, do we settle or do we aspire for greatness?  Could you dream even bigger?  Do you have plans to accomplish everything on your bucket list?  I’m building my bucket list.  I want to travel the world.  I haven't bought tickets, but I have a list of places I want to see and I am saving money towards that goal.  I’ve researched travel, languages, customs and maps.  Also, I’ve got a list of projects to do when I have more free time.  I’ve done my research, found some college classes to take to hone my skills.  Now, my priority is finding ways to positively influence others and to build relationships.  I hope to help others grow towards their potential.  I hope to remove barriers and find solutions.

I’ve started dreaming big again.  Once I retire, I don’t want to live on my past accomplishments.  That makes me a has-been, which is only slightly better than a never-was.  I think I will go back to college.  I plan to volunteer in areas that revitalize the dreams of our senior citizens and grow the dreams of our youth.  There will be more, I just haven't dreamed it all yet.  

So, what are your dreams?  More importantly, what are you doing about them?

 

Thanksgiving Greed

I am so sick of hearing people complain about the greed of the retailers that planned to open on Thanksgiving Day that I am ready to upchuck turkey, dressing, and both helpings of pumpkin pie. It should be intuitively obvious to even the most casual observer that retailers are not in business to reverse global warming, or cure world hunger, or any of those feel-good things.  To think otherwise is silly.  Retailers are in business for one reason; to make a profit by providing goods and services that consumers demand at as low a cost as possible.  So why would a retailer open on Thanksgiving Day?  Two words: consumer demand.

Retailers, competing for dwindling shopping dollars, are willing to open on Thanksgiving in order to maximize profits or minimize losses. But in order to make money, these retailers must know that shoppers will be there to spend money.  An empty store costs them money.  Obviously, they know the shoppers will show, but how do they know?  It’s all about supply and demand.  Consumers demand and businesses supply.  No demand and the stores would remain closed on Thanksgiving.

Think about the number of people that have camped out for days waiting for the stores to open on Black Friday.  How many people showed up at midnight on Thanksgiving night when stores opened to get that “killer” bargain, waiting all day in line to be the first in the store?  In each case, the shoppers decided that the “bargain” was more important than time with family and friends, or giving thanks for the many blessings, big and small, that have been bestowed upon them.

Some will argue that the bargain is too good to pass up.  Chances are that the product will be priced the same as it was back in August.  But on Black Friday, the special price on that XboxOne or 50” TV for the five or ten items the store was able to procure, will attract consumers to the store.  However, the bulk of them will be disappointed that “supplies are limited.”

The retailers who intend to open on Thanksgiving aren’t greedy; it’s the consumers who are willing to shop on the day of thanks that are greedy.  When family, friends, or giving thanks take a backseat to the latest “must-have”, society, as a whole, suffers. Chasing after that bargain may provide instant gratification, but what’s left when the newness has worn off or the next “greatest thing” comes along?  Instead of shopping on Thanksgiving, invest your time in strengthening relationships with family and friends.  Or invest in something bigger than you, volunteer to help serve Thanksgiving dinner at a local homeless shelter or soup kitchen.  The experience will help you remember the meaning of thanks-giving.

Happy Veteran's Day

I had the privilege of attending the Veteran’s Day parade in my town.  I was pleased with the number of people who attended the parade and the number of participants (the parade lasted nearly two hours).  There were veterans from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan.  There were wounded warriors riding in Corvettes, Patriot Guard riders, and Rolling Thunder riders (POW/MIA advocates), high school and college marching bands, and Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps contingents from every high school in the county. It’s nice to see the people show their appreciation for the veterans and their service.

An especially poignant moment for me occurred when a Vietnam veteran, riding on one of the floats, stood, saluted the elderly World War II veteran standing nearby, and thanked him for his service.  Many other veterans stopped by to shake the gentleman’s hand and thank him.  I was impressed at the humility of these veterans, gladly thanking others for the same type of service they themselves had rendered for their country.

After the parade, I overheard a conversation between two gentlemen wearing cavalry Stetsons. One had been in the 7^th Cavalry Regiment during Vietnam and the other had been in the 6^th Cavalry Regiment during Operation Desert Storm.  Although they were two strangers from different generations, these men were soon laughing and trading stories as if they were long lost friends.

As I thought about it afterwards, I came to the realization that the men and women who served our country were part of something much bigger than themselves and they have a kinship with others who have also served.  To them, race and religion don’t matter, only integrity and trustworthiness.

This month is the 50^th anniversary of President Kennedy’s assassination.  Many forgot his inaugural address, where he challenged Americans to “ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.”  These veterans did for their country, just as Kennedy challenged.  But we live in a time where far too many are asking what the country can do for them.  It’s time we do as these veterans have done and do for our country.

I’m not suggesting that we all volunteer for military service.  But, we can all volunteer for community service.  Help out at a soup kitchen, deliver meals to shut-ins, or work with youth at a Boys or Girls Club or a scouting program.  Volunteer to help with after-school tutoring or be a story-time reader at the local library.  There are so many things we can and should do to give back to our country.  At the same time, you’ll become part of something much bigger than yourself.

I wish I could shake the hand of each and every veteran, those who have served and those still serving.  If we truly want to honor their service and sacrifice, follow their lead and do for our country.

Bullying

by John Galt

What have we become?  A young girl cannot escape bullying and kills herself and the bullies dance on her grave.  No remorse.  No conscience.  Although the bullies are barely teenagers, they should know better.  Right and wrong are something we were taught as children.  At least it used to be.  And, the sanctity of human life is the basis of our moral code.  It is what sets us apart from the animals.  At least it used to set us apart. 

When I hear of a heinous crime, I ask myself if this is a new fracture in our moral psyche or because of all of the available media venues, it is only more reported.  Is it new or is it as it has always been, but now reported 24/7?

Cruelty has forever been part of the human experience.  There has always been a human element in the spoils of war.  Historically, human life has been a traded commodity.  We call ourselves civilized now, yet cruelty remains.  Often it is the cruelly-applied power one person holds over another.  Today, social media is a venue used by uncivilized humans to reign terror over others.  It allows kids to stalk and attach others relentlessly.  They can attack in a most cowardly way, hiding behind a keyboard, never facing the victim.  Worse, it can become a virtual gang of hate and misinformation.  It is mob mentality at its worst.

So, maybe the level of cruelty remains constant over history and into our present day, but there are more and newer ways to propagate terror and hate.  The days of peaceful oblivion are over.  You cannot unplug yourself from the pipeline of information.  Asking for your email address is as common as asking for your phone number twenty years ago.  It is how we communicate.

My heart breaks for the kids that are victims of bullies.  We need to equip our kids with strategies to handle bullies, to speak up about bullying and safe, effective ways to report bullying.  At an age that appearance is everything, it is often hard for kids to seek help.  So often they hide behind a pained smile and “I’m fine” response.  They prefer not to make waves.  They suffer in silence until it is too late.

So, given that schools rely on the internet to relay information to kids, track their grades and make assignments, how do we make it safe for everyone?  I suggest that we instill a parental control.  I’m not talking about the software you can buy to manage your kids’ access to the internet; I’m talking about a parent in the room with eyes on their kid’s activities.  And, not just the parents of the terrorists.  Watch out for signs that your kids are being terrorized.  Be your child’s strongest advocate.

Remember when your dad said, “My house, my rules!”?  Be a parent.  Be accountable for the actions of your children.  Set rules and enforce them.  Make your kids aware of your expectations.  Correct inappropriate behavior.  Seek counseling if you or your child needs guidance or to correct behaviors.  Ask a parent that you trust to be your mentor.  Join a support group at your church.  No one is a failure as long as they keep trying!

How kids conduct themselves today have long-term impacts.  These are the kids that will be in charge of your life decisions when you get old.  Do you want someone that would bully a child to suicide to make decisions on your care when you cannot make the decisions for yourself?  You reap what you sow.  Parents, can you live with that?