Why would people trade freedom for free stuff? Our Founders believed a good working definition of freedom is “A state of exemption from the power or control of another; liberty; exemption from slavery, servitude, or confinement.” (See https://webstersdictionary1828.com/ ). Look up the former Soviet Union or Venezuela. We the People in certain cities (yes, plural, as in “cities”), are ready to vote in leaders who promise a bevy of free stuff that defrays living expenses. Why would Americans do this? Here are a few reasons:
– People are afraid
– People want convenience
– People think it’s worth the trade-off
– People don’t understand or don’t accept basic economics
Does depending on the government for our basic needs provide Americans with permanent stability? Comfort? Convenience? History shows us that communism does not lead to prosperity, stability, or permanent comfort. Remember: what the government leaders give you can be taken away. Look up the former Soviet Union or Venezuela. These countries are eye-openers.
You were born with the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness (the right to earn a living and keep your stuff, your property). You were not born with the right to be permanently dependent on your neighbor for your basic needs. That’s where the government’s money comes from—from your working neighbors. The government’s money is the taxpayers’ money.
Also, many Americans don’t believe this fact: Nothing is ever free. All things have a cost, and someone pays that cost. Ask yourself: Why am I entitled to free stuff from my fellow Americans?
If you are afraid, today is the day to start working. Use what you have to provide a product or a service that people need. We’re coming up on the holidays. Can you bake? Drive? Work with your hands? Tutor? You have a skill, and someone needs your skill. What they don’t need is laziness, sloppiness, or unfair pricing.
You can do this. You can begin to be productive. You can vote for freedom, not permanent government dependence.
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship. 🇺🇸
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