Our policies should support families

In a recent speech our president credited government assistance for the success of individuals. Was he referring to his personal experience?

The government should not claim the success of individuals whether they are athletes or entrepreneurs; it diminishes the hard work invested in success. Our country offers freedom and opportunity. A stable family contributes to success along with the enormous energy invested by the individual. Have you seen the ads with Olympic athletes thanking their moms?

I am grateful for family and the ancestors who immigrated to this country. My grandfathers were willing to work long shifts in the copper mines to support their families. My grandmother raised a family while managing a subsistence farm. Education was valued and began in the home. My ancestors relied on faith in God and valued biblical principles. They took care of their family and established a heritage. I have benefited from a legacy of faith, education and a sound work ethic.

As a society we have shifted away from policies that recognize the value of families, faith and work. Are ever-increasing entitlements good for us as a nation? King Solomon wrote in the book of Ecclesiastes, “Then I realized that it is good and proper for a man to eat and drink, and to find satisfaction in his toilsome labor under the sun during the few days of life that God has given him — for this is his lot.” In what ways can our government encourage the family unit? What policies will motivate citizens to work hard?

Carol Van Der Woude

Hoffman Estates