CHARITABLE GIVING COMMENDABLE BUT RESULTS IN NEGLECT OF RESPONSIBILITY

During this time of devastation and tragedy in the Gulf Coast, due to Katrina, and now Rita, we are all being asked to contribute to the Red Cross, Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, and others. That is admirable, that we will do so. However, this giving results in a neglect of responsibility. The responsibility is that of the government [taxpayers] under the social contract. The more that is given by private parties, the less the government has to pay out. The government is not taking full responsibility.

Which government? Historicallly, it should be the taxpayers of the settlement, the place where each in need, was born. Where when you have to go there, they have to take you in. Now, in the 21st century, it should be the taxpayers of the federal government, due to modern means of travel and free access to each community of the nation.

Professor William Bennett apparently does not object to payments of federal taxpayer funds for these purposes; but he says all federal taxpayer assistance should be "funneled" through charities. If you need a meal, go to a faith based institution and beg. If you need a cancer operation for your baby, put a fruit jar out near the cash register of the neighborhood filling station.

As a part of the social contract (my new-born grandson is subject to the draft as cannon fodder for another Vietnam or Irag), the children, at least, ought to be able to rely on the federal government for an entitlement, yes, entitlement: two square meals, a doctor when sick, preventative medicine and dental care, a roof over the head, and first class education.

The Joy Junction mayordomo says he will not open his books, and that he is exempt from any government regulation imposing such a requirement. That is gall, for sure. I heard him say this on KKOB morning show when Larry Ahrens was still there. What does he do that the federal government should not take over, if worthy? Same with the American Red Cross; why should there be an "American Red Cross?" They do some good, but it is the responsibility of the federal taxpayers.

Is there a qualified needy person out there? Like a homeless, penniless quadriplegic? Yes. Who, if anyone, owes that person a life with dignity and the necessaries? Every taxpayer of the federal government of the United States; or else the social contract set forth in and by the Constition is a dead letter due to the greed of modern citizens.