I’m perceiving a troubling trend which strikes at the heart of a basic tenet of what makes our country great….the value of government service and the important role of programs supported by government which are implemented through private sector partners at the community level.
I am astonished by the rhetoric which is a far cry from reality. What I’m hearing contradicts what I believe makes our nation great…the value of public service for the public good.
Teachers and nurses, cops and family counselors, librarians and health inspectors…..these and all of the other diverse and dedicated professionals whose role in life is improving the quality of all of our lives. These professionals, supplemented by the vital investments of community volunteers, are heroes in our midst.
When I think of the many ways we benefit from those whose paychecks come from government, directly or through contract services, I am proud to be a member of a society which understands that we are all in the same boat….and if we poke holes in the hull, we will all sink!
As you know….I have a sense of history, gleaned from hearing the stories of my elder relatives and friends who share their experiences of struggle as they found a way to achieve their goals through hard work, devotion to faith and dedication to making their world better than the one they found.
What deeply concerns me is the chorus of negativity I hear without any credible, positive alternative. Should we demand accountability…of course! Should we measure the value of every dollar expended for program services in health care, education and family services across the generations? Yes, without reservation.
But there is a a wave of cynical criticism by some who would have us believe that all government is bad, all services are suspect, and any dollar spent on public programs are wasted.
This is simply wrong and an insult to the many whose mission is to help make our nation secure, our communities safer, our families stronger, and our future brighter.
Let’s give credit where credit is due. I praise those who are active participants in the wide spectrum of programs and projects which heal and help others. They deserve our gratitude, not our scorn. I honor the people whose talented gifts pay bountiful dividends and whose labors of love build a legacy for generations to come.
The effectiveness of my advocacy depends upon the depth of our conversation…..Please let me know what you think!
Whether you agree with me…..or have concerns about my perspective…..I certainly appreciate your response….
I value your reply and always hope you will choose to share my messages with others.
I am thrilled to share this brief 3-minute video message….It’s about a special young man and his service philosophy….
http://www.stservicemovie.com/
I guarantee you will be touch and uplifted!
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Jack Levine, Founder
4Generations Institute
Jack@4Gen.org
850.567.5252
www.4Gen.org