General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: There is not a single business owner in this country who got where they are 100% on their own [View all]Spike89
(1,569 posts)Here's my letter, I'm not including the original letter because I don't own the copyright, but I have posted a brief portion following my letter.
Its beyond ironic that in the first sentence of Bob Greshams letter (7/18) he claims President Obama distorts the American dream by himself distorting what the President said. The President did in fact state that no one earns anything
totally on their own. It is extreme hubris and willful disregard for the sacrifices and shared efforts of the people in our society to claim you did it alone. Evidently, Mr. Gresham doesnt believe our military has ever done a thing to protect us as a society. His business must not use any federally standardized currency or deal with a well-regulated and insured bank. His own security force and fire protection employees must pump water and guard the electrical-generating plants and waste removal systems he privately built. Perhaps he uses students from the schools he must have built as a source for his dedicated employees (who must commute to work on Bob Gresham-hewn roads).
Government isnt a bunch of grey concrete monoliths. It is the basis for civilization and our society. There is certainly lots of room to discuss and disagree within the framework of our society. Although I tend to believe in funding our society at high levels for the common good, I can understand and appreciate those who believe the balance between individual initiative and social responsibility lies somewhat to the right of mine. What I cant understand and appreciate is someone who doesnt even see all the things we (society/government) have done to nurture and support his rugged individualism.
Here's the opening part of the letter I'm responding to:
It was with disgust on July 16 that I listened to President Obamas distortion on the American dream, stating that no one earns anything it was either given to you, or someone helped you along the way.
The government never gave me anything. However, the government certainly had no shame in taking it away.