Reply #23: I agree with almost all that you wrote except this... [View All]

[Breeze54]

"it programs you to limit your options and to stop trying"

That I don't agree with. I think the majority of those needing assistance do want to make their lives better and I wasn't ashamed at all when my kids were little to ask for help. I worked for years before that and like you, had paid into the system. It was my duty to make sure they were OK, even if the state didn't do a F'n thing to collect the child support they were owed and their father was ordered to pay. I didn't feel guilty at all but I was pissed off that the state was complicit in allowing him to abscond on his responsibilities and the court order. Now that pissed me off!!