http://www.southbendtribune.com/stories/thisday/opinion.20041001-sbt-MICH-B4-Paying_taxes_is_obli.stoRecently a friend of mine said that he would be willing to pay more taxes in order to receive more services. He especially wanted to see more money spent on his children's school. He is a man out of step with the times, and I guess I am out of step too.
When I hear President Bush brag about how he has reduced taxes, I feel uneasy. Bush talks about taxes as if they are the domestic axis of evil.
Yes, the United States was founded on rugged individualism, and we're proud to continue the individualistic tradition. But this country also talks about the values of community and caring. I fear the pendulum is swinging too far towards individualism and too far away from community and caring.
We are being told that cutting taxes allows more money for consumption and entrepreneurship. Consumption and entrepreneurship create one path. But we are in danger of focusing too much on creating markets and not enough on creating a country.<SNIP>
Paying taxes is a creative act. I want a president who, as a patriot, reminds us from time to time that paying taxes is not only a legal obligation, it is a privilege.This person gets it! Wonder how many Repuke letters will respond to this well written op ed?