‘Entitlement’ mindset is ruining our country

One might analyize that life is like running the 100-yard dash. Problem is, we don't all begin at the same starting line. Some may have a 50-yard head start, whether it is physical, mental or most probably economic/financial. Most, I think, would agree with this since life is so grossly unfair.

Be that as it may, an axiom that came out of Nazi Germany says that if you tell a lie long enough and often enough, people will believe it. So it is with our government's use of the words entitlement, investment and contribute.

The fact is that just by virtue of your birth you are entitled to nothing under any circumstance. Those who are born with a handicap should definitely be helped privately but there are far too many who live their life with reckless abandon, taking no responsibility for their actions and then expect to be helped. The word help itself carries the connotation of being only temporary, not lifelong or, worse yet, generational.

Cutting back and tightening up on entitlements and all government subsidies whether it be farming, corporations or individuals would go a long way toward reducing the deficit. Many have become very proficient in bleeding the beast. How much free stuff can I get, while the productive can continue to contribute and invest in a bottomless pit.

Vernon J. Reed

Marion