Overturning of Prop. 13 sought in lawsuit (California)

[schmice]

120. You are so wrong.

I have very progressive views even though I see the benefits for homeowners which are derived from Prop 13. You make it sound so evil and shameful to be able to own a home. Prop 13 was a reaction to out-of-control spending on programs which often didn't cure the problem. Many of these programs didn't require recipients to do anything to help lift themselves out of their poverty. Kind of like that Chinese proverb about giving someone some fish and feeding him for a day rather than teaching someone to fish so that they could feed themselves for life. They became dependent on the kindness of strangers.

I have no problem giving to the needy but I have a problem when people who are otherwise capable are satisfied with taking and not doing anything to improve their own lot. I also have a problem with people complaining about the crappy condition of the vandalized classrooms when it is their own children doing the vandalizing. I have a problem with people complaining that their kids aren't learning when their kids are disrupting classes and even accosting teachers and the parents do nothing. I have a problem with parents who don't spend quality time with their children reading to them early on and not encouraging them to strive for better things. I have a problem with parents who spend their money on alcohol and drugs and junk food and not being good role models. I have a problem with kids who think that they have something coming to them and don't make the effort to fend for themselves. I have a problem with people who feel like we owe them a living when they are not willing to do their share.

As for your statement that all that matters to me is my precious bourgeois house, you don't know what you're talking about. My wife and I work our asses of so that our kids can have a chance at a better life. I want my kids to see what is possible if they put their minds and backs to it. We have taught them what using initiative can do in their lives. What is wrong with enjoying the rewards of our labor? I am more than willing to supply them the tools for success but there comes a time when they have to use them. You are living in a mythical Utopian world whose time has passed. I believe that Marx was right about a lot of things, but his vision was just a pipe dream because it would have required all able people to do their best for the good of all. Too many people are looking for a hand out rather than a hand out.

Why do I even post on DU? Because I believe that what some people say is worthwhile and thought provoking. I've found some kindred spirits on the site; people who are able to get past the rhetoric and are able to see the nuances and complexities of the situation.