If we have concerns about an entitlement mentality, what can we do to alleviate the problem? Does it really help those who truly feel they are entitled to something simply to say they are wrong? Beverly Smallwood, a psychologist, gives some basic advice for entitlement adherees:
THE WORLD DOESN'T OWE YOU; YOU OWE THE WORLD"The world owes me" is a false premise. We have so many life-giving, life-enhancing resources and opportunities at our disposal. These are gifts. They deserve our gratitude, not our indifference. What better way to show our gratitude than to give back? I believe that we are each called and personally equipped to make a difference in this world.
Rather than complaining, let's live the words of Mohandas Gandhi: "We must be the change we wish to see in the world."
When looking into the purvasive problem of an entitlement mentality amongst our youth, I came across this interesting video clip that apparently won 2nd place in a contest titled "u @ 50". It's short and worth a look: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42E2fAWM6rA
It is helpful to see hope emmanating from our younger generations. I am an advocate of exposing inspiring stories to our youth and minimizing the broadcast of bad examples. Any ideas of ways to reach beyond entitlement to empowerment?
Monday, February 23, 2009
Friday, February 6, 2009
Entitlement Backlash
Entitlement policies were established to help various needy populations in this country such as: physically and mentally disabled, impoverished families, veterans, and immigrants. Most would agree our country needs policies intact to contribute to the well-being of those in need. However, a wave of dissolutionment regarding entitlement policies is swelling throughout our nation. In various ways, people are expressing hositility towards recipients taking advantage of entitlement policies. One worker shares his story:
Urine Test
I work, they pay me. I pay my taxes and the government distributes my taxes as it sees fit. In order to earn that pay check, I work on a rig site for a Fort Mac construction project. I am required to pass a random urine test, with which I have no problem. What I do have a problem with is the distribution of my taxes to people who don't have to pass a urine test. Shouldn't one have to pass a urine test to get a welfare check because I have to pass one to earn it for them?
Please understand that I have no problem with helping people get back on their feet. I do on the other hand have a problem with helping someone sit on their ___ drinking beer and smoking dope while I work..Could you imagine how much money the states would save if people had to pass a urine test to get a public assistance cheque?
Where is the balance for entitlement policies? If we agree we need to have such policies, how can these policies remain free from a hostile public? Perhaps more effort needs to be put in public awareness of entitlement expenditures and pride in our country's value of helping others. On the other hand, perhaps we need tighter limits for those who are capable of working. Any suggestions?
Urine Test
I work, they pay me. I pay my taxes and the government distributes my taxes as it sees fit. In order to earn that pay check, I work on a rig site for a Fort Mac construction project. I am required to pass a random urine test, with which I have no problem. What I do have a problem with is the distribution of my taxes to people who don't have to pass a urine test. Shouldn't one have to pass a urine test to get a welfare check because I have to pass one to earn it for them?
Please understand that I have no problem with helping people get back on their feet. I do on the other hand have a problem with helping someone sit on their ___ drinking beer and smoking dope while I work..Could you imagine how much money the states would save if people had to pass a urine test to get a public assistance cheque?
Where is the balance for entitlement policies? If we agree we need to have such policies, how can these policies remain free from a hostile public? Perhaps more effort needs to be put in public awareness of entitlement expenditures and pride in our country's value of helping others. On the other hand, perhaps we need tighter limits for those who are capable of working. Any suggestions?
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