Too many burdens of our own to help refugees
I read the opinion article on "welcome the stranger" and request equal opportunity to state my opinion. First and foremost many Americans ancestors have fought for freedom and/or have been raised with patriotism - we will do all we can to keep this great country free and safe. We are law-abiding citizens who believe in truth and fairness and expect the same in return.
If someone asked me my opinion on bringing in millions of refugees, I would have a lot to take into consideration. Out of respect for my fellow Americans and understanding boundaries for others' rights - I know I would be violating other Americans rights to think that I can decide that others should have to pay their money through taxes for a cause I believe in.
What I believe is that charity begins at home - our citizens are hurting - doing without and wonder how they will put food on the table and pay property tax bills. Perhaps the biggest injustice is the unfairness to our young couples that are trying to make it with one child and cannot afford a second child - having to pay tax money for illegals who broke the law and have several children at the expense of law abiding citizens.
And now you decide we should put more of a burden on tax payers and pay for refugees and for their children? And what about our not having the money for our mentally challenged? I don't understand in good conscience how you can turn your back on so many fellow Americans, many that are homeless living in the streets.
Perhaps in your line of thinking, you think money "grows on trees "and we should have the government print more money. Or, perhaps you take our freedom for granted or are so naive that you would jeopardize it? Oh, and are you going to assume responsibility if this group of strangers rape, hurt or kill your fellow Americans? God does not believe in socialism. Iif a man does not work he does not eat.
If you feel so strongly about helping refugees, then you should send your money to an organization to help them and speak for yourself. The refugees should stay in a safe zone in their country and their country has plenty of money to finance it.
Lynda Shriber
Barrington