Entitlement Does Not Follow Equality

     May 1 has been declared, as in years past, to be "Law Day" by the American Bar Association.  The theme this year, as outlined by the ABA, is "Realizing the Dream: Equality for All."  The Dream being referenced by the theme this year is a reference to the "I Have a  Dream" speech of Dr. Martin Luther King in 1963.  Dr. King continually urged equal treatment of all individuals under the law and fought to end discrimination.

     Although I take issue with many of the activities of the ABA, reasonable minds can surely agree that people ought to all be treated equally under the law.  However, I believe that many individuals in this current day and age confuse equality and inalienable rights with entitlement.

     The Declaration of Independence states, "that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights like life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness."  So, as Americans, we are all free, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, disability, and sexual orientation, to pursue happiness.  This right does not, in my opinion, entitle us to anything beyond that ability.

Warning:  The remainder of this post will contain harsh realities that may offend the sensibilities of the bleeding-hearts.  Consume at your own risk.

     For me, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, going to restaurants, playing golf, watching TV, traveling, etc.  If I had my choice, those activities would consume all of my days.  However, many of these activities cost money.  I made choices in life and pursued a path that has allowed me to earn a comfortable living and partake in many of the life activities I enjoy.  Through hard work, dedication, and commitment, the large majority of people in America can do the same.

     That being said, there is not much on this Earth that makes me more angry than the thought of an able bodied welfare recipient sitting on their ass, taking bong rips, and playing video games.  It is not necessarily their activity (or inactivity) that is so aggravating, but the ever-increasing attitude in this country that "I am entitled to this."  WRONG.

     You are entitled to life, not the life of the rich and famous.  You are entitled to the liberty to pursue any life path you wish.  If your life choice was to smoke meth, you are not entitled to a new iPhone.  You are entitled to pursue happiness.  If nice things make you happy, you are welcome to gain employment and purchase nice things.  Further, you are even entitled to apply for work without fear of discrimination.  However, if your qualifications for employment are terrible, you are not entitled to be hired.

     This entitlement mentality is only perpetuated by our Federal and State Governments.  Do you know that the government will tell you, to the day, when your unemployment benefits will expire?  They should just write a letter:

"Dear Down-and-Out,

     Your friendly government will take care of you until December 1, 2013.  Please do not feel inclined to lift a finger until that time.  Oh, I almost forgot, if you are unsuccessful in finding a job by that time, please let us know and we will extend your benefits." 

     Now, I am sure you are thinking "this guy is tough, there are people out there that legitimately need help."  Trust me, I know this.  I will tell you, without hesitation, that it is our duty as citizens to help those in need.  However, I would much rather make that determination on my own and without government intervention.  I have been handling my finances for quite a few years and it seems my budgeting and spending is far superior to that of the government.           

     Life can chew you up and spit you out.  I suppose we could live in a socialist society and let the government dole out our monthly allowances and take care of our needs.  But, what would be the reward to those that do persevere in the face of life challenges and succeed in their chosen life path?  There would be none, because there would be no incentive to try.  I think we, as a society, will suffer if we continue to remove incentives to actually pursuing happiness.  Life is not fair.  However, it should most certainly be unfair to everyone equally.