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Congress mirrors ‘me first’ society
It was no surprise that the congressional supercommittee failed. Congress simply mirrors the “me first” American society. Thus, congressional partisanship represents us well.
Who in the United States represents the nation or is actually concerned for the nation? Members of Congress represent their fat-cat contributors, their party and their lobbyists.
American voters abandoned the republic by not voting in numbers even approaching a majority of eligible voters. American voters, by and large, represent their apathy or embrace a principle of “least effort.” Therefore, we experience a society and nation driven by special interests (or noninterest) with no genuine concern for the common good.
If you are residing in the U.S. and choose to become concerned, just remember that politicians and the media know that “message matters.” Your voice and vote count, unless you don’t use them. Send a message; let your national, state and local elected officials, as well as your neighbors and friends, know your message. Hear your voice and feel your vote.
Individual action might just be beneficial for the common good. Then again, who cares?
PAT ADAMSON
Wichita
Make voice heard
I am a freshman at Wichita State University. In my senior year of high school, our government teacher talked about how it was a civic duty to make informed voting decisions. From my experience, it seems the vast majority of “proud” American citizens are unwilling to educate themselves and go out and vote come elections. It’s not just a problem with youths; many adults also have a problem with caring enough to vote. They say that it won’t make a difference. That is an excuse to be lazy.
Our government is failing us because of pandering to ideological bases. I encourage all moderates to educate themselves on all the candidates and get out in 2012 and vote. Make your voice heard.
DREW BONNER
Wichita
All are greedy
Although its mission is admirable, the Occupy Wall Street movement should consider changing its target. Extravagance is not wasted on corporate executives. Corruption knows no stranger in the 99 percent. Greed is an equal opportunity sin.
I would challenge the protesters to relocate Friday. Vacate corporate headquarters and move to the shopping centers. In parking lots across America, you will witness greed in its finest form as Black Friday fanatics make their calculated assault.
Eliminating greed in this country will require us to point a finger at ourselves (the 100 percent).
Take your personal stand against greed this Friday (or Saturday). Participate in the 20th-annual Buy Nothing Day (buynothingday.org). Stay at home. Sleep late. Read a book. Eat some leftovers. Take your kids to the park. Volunteer. Call a friend. Visit someone in the hospital. Write some “thank you” notes.
If, on the other hand, you decide to stand out in front of Wally’s Best Toys Mart at 2 a.m. to be the first to get your hands on a Let’s Rock Elmo, please don’t criticize Wall Street executives and bank presidents for being the ones who are extravagant and greedy.
MARCUS LOGANBILL
Wichita
