|
sharing what?
|
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
|
The following is an excerpt from a hopefully-soon-to-be-edited-or-re-evaluated open letter to the large number of people who, today, made statements indicating that part of the reason they're angered by the statement "Share the Wealth" (which has floated around rather eerily as of late) based on the misguided belief that "the poor" are somehow at fault for their poverty - "And why should I give those people my money?" This American "Self-made-man" ideology, the idea that "Joe the Plumber is currently poor, but could get out of poverty if he just tried hard enough" is not only extremely improbable in the majority of cases, it is also becoming increasingly utilized as an excuse for us - the Rich - to choose comfort and apathy, and in the face of others' suffering, do nothing.
If we are going to argue [against the redistribution of wealth in America], and have legitimate reasons to back up our beliefs, then perhaps we can chat. And if we decide the government cannot be allowed to take money from the Rich to support the needs of the masses, that's fine: but ladies and gentlemen, let's be honest. Maybe we need to get over ourselves (and our money)....
...Since when is it okay to consider anything material, particularly money, "Mine"? Is it not a gift from God that should be poured out? Or does God want me to keep it for myself? I would agree, and say that it is NOT the government's job to MAKE us learn to be sacrificial.... but I'm realizing that the Political Right - and the Church - may need a bit of a wake up call.
I am aware, tonight,that I myself need a wake up call. How much is my life about me? Why do I continue to see need, but do nothing? My prayer, though at times reluctant, is that I would not just TALK (or write), but DO. And BE.
"...The more these kinds of issues cross my path, the more incapable I seem to become of shrugging them off, or passing them by. A lot of it has to do with the community I grew up in and the people I've encountered over the years.
They say the best way to motivate the hearts of the masses is to give the cause a face and a name, something we can all relate to. And my memory is filled with both.
-Erin Baker, on the wake of the Obama election, 11/05/08
| |
|
