I Miss Bush

[SamIam]

Originally Posted by Urbane Guerrilla

Turning to Sam's particular situation and considering a fix: how big and flat is that town, there on the "Edge of the Land of Enchantment?" Bicycles are easier to afford than cars -- and give practicable mobility to about a 15- to 20-mile radius, coupled with a flexibility no mass transit could possibly match, which taken together I think somewhat shrinks the field for grousing and bitching. But if that disability thing means legs no good or eyes not so good, a bicycle is still no solution -- dang.

Well, thank you for your concern UG! And, no a bicycle is not an option for me. Most of the time I can find a friend with a car to take me where-ever, and I pay them for their gas.

Yes I see that, and believe it or not, the necessities are available to every American. But not always in a dignified manner, which causes some to decline.

The programs are in place, but many of them are badly under-funded. For example, most cities have a two year plus wait for housing vouchers with no emergency assistance available. Congress now wants to cut this program which could turn thousands of people onto the streets - especially low income elderly and disabled.

Depending on the state you live in, food stamps can be woefully inadequate. Social Services treated me like a criminal when I went in to apply and ultimately awarded me $10.00/month. The administrative costs have to be more than that! (BTW, you are in fine form this morning, Bruce - love your one-liners!)

Originally Posted by Undertoad

If they are socialized correctly, the same damage occurs if the assistance on offer is palatable and easy to receive. Productive cultures value productive work.

This is so true. Most of the people I know who are on disability would give anything to go back to work - it's a matter of self-respect as much as anything. It's a major defeat to have to go into the Social Security building and fill out that application. I used up all my savings and had nothing left before I could force myself to go down there.