This land of opportunity, is why many people came to our shores. From all over the world, America, once called the New World, is seen as a place where people could dream of success and even riches. Hard work and dedication result in great success for many people. Inventions and new products and a high standard of living were the result of the opportunities our country offered, as well as the freedom and liberty not found in other countries.
Even today with all the problems we are facing, there are still opportunities to succeed. But it is becoming more difficult to do this.
Excess regulation and taxation have been pushed by some of our leaders as a way to solve problems. “Tax the rich” and “make them pay their fair share” are two of the slogans used.
The problems we are facing are not being solved by government leaders. Their only thoughts are to throw more money at it — which doesn’t usually work. Corporations move overseas where the taxes are more reasonable. This causes higher unemployment. Wealthy investors move their money to offshore banks and institutions.
So why keep advocating “taxing the rich?” One reason is they are envious of anyone who is successful. They want to punish those who succeed.
There are many reasons why the people in public office can’t solve the problems every American faces every day. These leaders — and I use that term loosely — are out of touch with Joe and Mary Average American. They don’t understand working at a job, cutting the grass, shoveling snow or going to the grocery store. They don’t know about making ends meet, when taxes are too high. They are out of touch and not listening.
Another reason for taxing the rich is control. Wealthy people have succeeded in their careers and have made money — sometimes lots of money. They control their lives and the political leaders don’t want anyone to control anything. They regulate and tax successful people and businesses to gain control. These “leaders” are insanely jealous of anyone who is successful.
That is not the purpose of our economic system. Rewarding hard work and taking risks is what capitalism is all about.
Opportunities are abundant in our nation, even with the regulations imposed. What people need to do is pursue these opportunities, and work to achieve their goals.
Herb Dettmer is a retired Bowling Green resident, U.S. Army veteran and writes this column representing the viewpoint of “Joe Average” citizen. He is freelance writer and author of “Others,” a devotional book. Call or text “Joe” with comments at 419-494-4641.
