THE WEEKENDER: Strong Woman Discusses Personal Responsibility
The Strong Woman
“Personal Responsibility”
By Claire Cooper Black
We just left a Town Hall meeting where our U.S. Congressman, Kevin Brady, was the speaker. Mr. Brady did a decent job of explaining the current issues that are facing all Americans. And unlike most Town Hall meetings with Congressmen, this one was very calm.
UNTIL …
After the Town Hall, the Hubster and I stepped outside and met with some other residents of Houston County. The Berry’s are new to our county and are both former military. They are very sweet people. And I say this because of my actions. I got, well let’s say, a bit “animated” while we were discussing 44care. And not in a good way. The Berry’s are Democrats and as no surprise to anyone who has read our columns over the years, the Hubster and I are Republicans. The Berry’s are in favor of 44care. We are not. The Berry’s accepted my apologies for getting over “animated” and we went on to discuss a few other topics.
As I drove home from the meeting, I wondered why I became so “animated.” Then I realized the reason for it.
All my life I have tried to be a responsible citizen. I follow the laws. I pay my taxes. I pay my licensing fees. I pay my auto, health and business insurance. I give to charities. Would I have liked to have spent my hard-earned money on other things than insurance, taxes and fees? Yes. Most definitely! But that’s not what “Personal Responsibility” allows.
So, I think after 40 some odd years of taking “Personal Responsibility,” it has finally taken a toll on my attitude towards those that don’t. NOT THOSE WHO CAN’T! Those who don’t and won’t.
While living in Dallas, my vehicles were involved in 4 wrecks. None my fault. One driver out of 4 had insurance coverage. ONE! Not too long ago I heard about a person being taken advantage of by an unlicensed uninsured professional. State law requires that this “professional” (I’m being ironic) be licensed AND insured to offer their services in the State of Texas. They weren’t. This person was passing themselves off as a person in my profession. In fact, numerous people in my profession are operating illegally in our state.
So, after thinking about all the times my life has crossed with the uninsured and unlicensed, I realized why I got so “animated”. I’m being a responsible adult and my patience with having to pay out of MY pocket for those who DON’T AND WON’T take personal responsibility has come to an end.
Again, I apologize to the Berry’s for my “animation”. But I will not apologize for my position about everyone taking personal responsibility for their lives.
This may be the core difference between Republicans and Democrats.
