"The hottest places in hell are reserved for those who, in time of great crisis, maintain their neutrality." Dante
I am also reminded of Bob Marley's lyrics, "Get up! Stand up! Stand up for your rights."
This financial crisis bail out discussion before us as Americans has me deeply disturbed. I have written my senator and congressman. Have you? I hope that whatever you believe, you say it, too. WEIGH IN, NOW. Act! Here is how to contact your Senator and U.S. Congressman. Go to:
http://www.usa.gov/Contact/Elected.shtml
Here's what I said...
Dear Senator,
I strongly oppose the approval of a Wall Street bail out. The financial crisis is a critical issue, yes. But I have two issues with bailing out.
First, an imbalance of this magnitude cannot simply be "absorbed" by any system. An imbalance of this magnitude must be worked out through the natural operations of the system in which the imbalance was created. The market economy is designed to rebalance foolishness through liquidation. Interfere with that system--trying to have all the benefits of the system without the consequences that come from abusing it--and the whipsaw effect will be worse than the initial consequences. Let the system work. Let's bear the consequences. Let's be adults about this and take our licks instead of adolescents who feel victimized and entitled.
Second, I am incredibly concerned about the role government is beginning to play. I am very concerned about the liberties we have lost. I am very concerned that a government maneuver like this actually will make the government even more powerful and the individuals that government is supposed to represent enslaved to an even greater degree. I cannot tell you exactly why I feel this way, but I am becoming increasingly alarmed as an American.
“Freedom is a package deal - with it comes responsibilities and consequences”
“None are more hopelessly enslaved than those who falsely believe they are free.” Goethe
I do not believe my eyes, my friend: I believe there is probably more to this than meets the eye. I believe that what appears to be a "generous" and "benevolent" move to save us from ourselves is a move that actually covers some very questionable motives, driven by some very questionable power brokers.
Face it down. Face them down. Represent us well. For the long-haul, not the short-term.
My best,
Otis Woodard