Through the years I’ve learned that former politicians offer some of the most insightful, intelligent comments about the issues of the day. Freed from worries about making a gaffe, the ex-pols are suddenly astute and discerning.
Funny isn’t it? Elected official—BS. Former elected official—PhD.
I was reminded of all this when former county commissioner Jeff Sprys, a moderate Democrat, wrote to me on Facebook about the big push to reduce the pay and benefits of public employees.
Here’s what he had to say: “I think it is really all part of a bigger problem that has infected society, which is: How can someone make as much money as possible, regardless of the consequences on others and society? This underlying theme is justified and hidden in the guise of ‘I’m taxed too much’ and, frankly, I’m just as guilty as the next person. Finished my income taxes and realized, OMG, I owe a lot of money. Why should I have to pay? I worked like three jobs in 2010, with a wife that worked midnights, and a newborn child. I want what is mine. Other people are not my problem. Why should I have to pay for an earned income tax credit for those making 20K a year? Obama got me! Why I ask?
Well, because it is the right thing to do of course. I’ve got it pretty good at 33, probably better than those twice my age. Should I be upset that my taxes get raised or that I pay more to support the pensions of people who likely made far less than me and worked their fingers to the bone? No. The more I think about it, I’m mad because I do not have that same security net in my future, but that is a pretty selfish thought, huh? Because I do not have it, they shouldn’t either. Pretty greedy, huh?
Greed was characterized by the early Christians as one of seven cardinal vices. I do not want to be in that circle of hell so ominously described by Dante. I will pay more in taxes — or at least my fair share — to make sure others have it as good as me with the hope that one day, I may be as fortunate to have the same security.”
Well, because it is the right thing to do of course. I’ve got it pretty good at 33, probably better than those twice my age. Should I be upset that my taxes get raised or that I pay more to support the pensions of people who likely made far less than me and worked their fingers to the bone? No. The more I think about it, I’m mad because I do not have that same security net in my future, but that is a pretty selfish thought, huh? Because I do not have it, they shouldn’t either. Pretty greedy, huh?
Greed was characterized by the early Christians as one of seven cardinal vices. I do not want to be in that circle of hell so ominously described by Dante. I will pay more in taxes — or at least my fair share — to make sure others have it as good as me with the hope that one day, I may be as fortunate to have the same security.”
