Viewpoint

Why go to a government?

Looking around the city I lived in, it was obvious we need a mass transit. Temple is a small town. However, it has been growing steadily in the last few years and needs some way for people without automobiles to get back and forth. The basis of the idea was to promote a method for people to get to work. Having a wider employee pool, easier access to stores for shoppers and providing for the needy are a few benefits.

Immediately I questioned the idea of going to government. Believing taxes are so high because the government picks up the slack too often government is best at finding people with the interest and drive to invest and plan local mass transit. Even if there are only a couple small buses along popular routes there is a lot of risk associated this investment. Government provides a backup for contributing investors, so mass transit is feasible. It would also be open to a public vote.

Government is not important for everything. A Salt Lake City environmentalist group pooled together funds for the purpose of buying undeveloped land for nature reserves. The initiative they took to avoid government intervention is admirable.

What is the character of a politician?

As most people, everyone is an individual. Many people believe politicians are only in it for the money. Even my Grandmother, who has known many people in politics and ran for County Clerk, carries a grudge against politicians. She met Merril Cook at Bridge Club meetings. He eventually became a Republican and won a Senate seat in the State of Utah. Feeling betrayed she put up many defenses. After he was elected he promoted third party agendas, such as slowing down Light Rail construction. He is a genuine person motivated to do what he thinks is right.

One must understand the Constitution, which protects United States Citizens, makes progress difficult. It is easy to get wrapped up in wanting things done, "now." Levels of Representatives, Senators, Judicial, Supreme Court and Presidency filter out vague, impossible and hurtful legislation. Attacking another group of people is never a viable option. Instead, help the most people in a non-personal way. Much in the case of the local mass transit, why should I have to personally over-see everything, when someone with more interest and knowledge can do it better? The majority of people will also agree, if it is viable.

Why express your views?

Why not? "You have to break a couple eggs to make an omelet." The Constitution provides all citizens the right to contribute by voting and getting involved to ensure their own happiness. More importantly, by saying nothing, will you regret it latter?

People from all walks of life see issues differently and issues rarely considered. My Mom once said her generation, "the Hippies," did a lot of harm to society. However, if it was not for them where would we be now? It was messy and messed up. There were consequences standing up for their beliefs. I doubt anyone is proud of harassing Vietnam Soldiers. On the other hand, more women have can protect their children and walk away from abusive relationships. Woman's Rights changed the face of the United States for the better.

Environmentalists were the first to see a growing need to be kind to the ecosystems around us. In many areas suffering from pollution, an ideology was already established to handle smog and acid rain. Regulating pollutants and seeing planting trees as important did not happen until it became obvious actions had to be taken. Now places in Michigan and Tennessee can breathe easier, because of environmentalist contributions.

What is your opinion worth?

Your opinion is extremely valuable. Our nations function around everyone contributing and being their best. Regular people working and living in their neighborhoods see problems before they become huge problems. Many people are now faced with losing jobs. Countless people could see in advance the cost of living was too high.

In the long run finding ideas to cut cost burden has helped. Too many times I have heard how rough life is from everyone. "I have to have roommates to afford an apartment." "Taxes are taking all of my money at the end of the year." "I can barely afford food let alone clothing or a car." "All my money goes to paying off my credit cards." No one shares this dilemma with anyone, except close friends and families.

How to approach a community leader?

It is extremely easy. Remember to be respectful and considerate. They are people too. Often harsh words can lead to hurt feelings and uncooperative distance. Be humorous, a joke might assist in becoming comfortable. Extreme actions and words only intimidate, leading to the end of a conversation.

Humility is valuable. Putting aside your own personal feelings to accomplish an important goal is outstanding. Confidence and a strong conviction are also important. If you do not believe it, why should anyone else? As mentioned before, meeting Community Leaders at functions is common. Being dignified at all times makes new connections. This places you in to a position of greater support and trust.

Where do you go for research?

The internet has everything you need. Sometimes a person has to go to the Capital Archives for research. Typing SOS and the state referencing brings up the Secretary of State Office in every state. They show what is on the ballot, where to vote, where to register to vote, your local representation, some lobbyists activities, where to resource information, results from past ballots, and a whole lot more.

Conclusion

Getting involved is not about money. Even when doing it for personal benefit, the life of loved one and anyone in similar circumstance benefit greatly. Personally, I fear government dominance in relation to the private sector is forcing communism onto the country. Every day more and more people ask for more help from the government. Soon taxes will be so high everything will be provided by the government. The Baby Boomers are starting to retire and my generation is left out. A lot more jobs will be opening soon. Does it matter if everyone goes bankrupt? Everyone living in the United States, younger and older generations, needs to become independent and less reliant on government.

Cost effective ideas and ideas to generate business is the greatest need. Of course, there are many problems to be resolved. It does not matter if another person gets even wealthier from investing in government programs. The bickering about how it gets done is not as important as having a great future for everyone.

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