Monday; April 14

If you would have come by my house about 35 years ago, it would have been a mess – and so would I.  Back before we had personal computers, doing taxes involved a lot of papers, math and weeping.  I had a card table where I would spread out my documents, forms and an adding machine and go to work.  I would figure, refigure, rearrange and refigure again in hopes that I could come up with numbers that both the IRS and I could live with.  In addition to the process being time-consuming, we didn’t have a lot of extra money, so I would run the numbers several times making sure they were right.  However, that was only half the battle – then we had to try to figure out how to find the money we owed!  When I think back on the good old days – these weren't part of them.

Now, with more technology and better budgeting, Tax Day is not nearly as stressful for me (or for Jeane).  However, in spite of the difficulties, I was blessed to have been raised by parents who understood the value of taxes.  We were taught that it was not only a responsibility to pay our taxes, it was also an honor to support others by supporting the government.  

As the Tax Day descends upon our nation once again, let’s adjust our attitudes to keep in mind that, by paying taxes, we are supporting those in our nation who need a little extra boost.  Additionally, we are providing income to those men and women who have decided to work in the public sector – as public servants who may choose to make less and do more.  It is an honor to pay our fair share and spread the burden of good citizenship because that’s what good neighbors do!

Think About It!  

 


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