A simple proposal

It is a simple concept really. I propose replacing the words "Government" and "Free" with the words "Taxpayer funded". Here are examples: "Government Bailout" would become "Taxpayer Funded Bailout" and "School Free Lunch Program" would become "School Taxpayer Funded Lunch Program", or another big one of "Government Healthcare Option" would be "Taxpayer Funded Healthcare Option". There is no such thing as "Government" money, just like "There ain't no such thing as a free lunch" (TANSTAFL). This is our money, taken from us and distributed by the government. I want more say in where my money goes.

The rise and fall of the empire?

It has been said by pundits that an excellent predictor of the impending collapse of a civilization is a general disregard for manners and courtesy. If this is true, and I have no proof that it isn't, then our American Society is well on its way to total collapse. A higher and higher percentage of our culture accepts, and even practice active rudeness, disrespect and aggressive behavior. Foul language, rude sayings on shirts, Calvin decals peeing on (fill in the blank here) , balls hanging from the trailer hitches of pickup trucks, all visible and protected under the umbrella of "political correctness" or general acceptance of any and all behavior. How many times this week have you heard the "f-bomb" without even noticing it? Take some time this week to really listen for foul language. It has become so commonplace we don't even hear it anymore. Like sex and violence on TV, the objectification of women, the exposure of our young people to more and more influences to grow up quickly - it is just creeping into our everyday life. SHAME ON US for becoming inured to it. SHAME ON US for not speaking out about it. SHAME ON US for moving away from those values that allow us to become the people we are today.

Take a stand. Next time you hear that casual foul language, just say no! Tell the speaker you don't like that kind of talk. Don't tolerate rude behavior. Voice your displeasure at the rude shirt you see. Stop being the silent majority, or else we will become the silent minority.

It is all about character

Regardless of what is presented daily on Television, in the Print Media or on the internet, America is not composed of sleazy, carousing, dirt bags. The VAST (and silent) majority have a core set of values that have been largely unchanged since the founding of our country. Belief in a higher authority, the desire to "do the right thing", compassion, reliability, steadfastness are all still out there. The same kind of values that are sung about every day in your average country music statement, are still there, and are keeping America strong.

We are not all "Desperate Housewife's", "Brothers and Sisters" or "Dirty, Sexy Money" people. We share a lot more with "Leave it to Beaver" or "Andy of Mayberry". Let's make these values popular again. Character DOES count. Only vote for people with character. Hold elected officials to a higher standard, not a lower one.

I strongly believe that modeling behavior is the most effective way to implement change. I don't: hang around with felons, fool around on my wife, cheat on my taxes, cuss, do drugs, drink and drive, etc., etc.. I do, however, go to church, volunteer, donate, love, laugh and have fun.