FLIPSIDE : The "ME" in America

It's amusing sometimes to sit back and soak up society. Tucked away in some small corner of existence, I found a pebble of absurdity among the tremendous heap of large stones that build the foundation of good ol' America. A place where capitalism rules. A place where greed strives. A place where slaves were once held captive, both mentally and physically. A place where overseas wars are funded, but children starve at home. A place where money reigns supreme. There is no place like home.

I often wonder what the big deal is about President Obama's health care plan. Is it so controversial that health care seminars have been mimicking an episode of WWE Monday Night Raw? America has been a place where supposedly everyone here has the right to the pursuit of happiness. After all, this is suggested to be the land of opportunity. Unfortunately in the shadow of capitalism and our neighbors on Wall Street, it seems as though it is the land of opportunity, but only if you can afford to do it yourself.

While a very small percentage of Americans are wealthy beyond belief, there is a hefty percentage of Americans who are not that fortunate. Some are even less fortunate than that. With this in mind, it is disturbing to come to the realization that Obama's health care program is being scrutinized so harshly. What is saddening though, is the sheer selfishness of America. We spend millions on liberating a country who has been trying to kick us out since we've been there. We spend millions on relief efforts for every country other than our own. If you don't agree, I'll just let you think about Katrina and New Orleans. The 5th Ward still looks like Katrina just happened yesterday. When do we take care of home?

The health care debate fits accordingly. The conflict may appear to be about plan particulars and a loss of freedom of choice. It may even seem to be a ploy for "Big Brother" to manipulate and dictate our lives. That's the absurdity that I mentioned earlier on. The basic and idea that is evident here is the overall audacity of the "haves" to think of it as despicable to give a helping hand to the "have nots". I thought that was the whole aspect of charity. Helping out others who are less fortunate. Or, is that only true when its a tax write off? Catch ya' on the FLIPSIDE.