We need politicians who care

When I was a young mother, my Aunt Beth would save all of her Styrofoam containers from her Meals on Wheels for me, figuring that with three children, I could use them. I always thanked her, even though I soon had more containers than I knew what to do with.

What I was most thankful for, however, was that Aunt Beth was getting a good square meal every day. My aunt did not own a car. She walked to the hospital to do volunteer work and visit the sick. She walked to church to do service projects there. She was one of the most valuable people I have known.

Today, Congress has scrambled to remove the budget sequester-induced inconveniences that affect themselves and others who are wealthy or well-connected enough to travel by air. Yet they seem to disregard people like my aunt, whose well-being is assured and supported by programs such as Meals on Wheels and Medicare.

If she were still with us, I think I'd send Aunt Beth to Congress. We need people who care.

Judy Ryan

Cedar Rapids