Be a cheerful taxpayer

The Bible, in 2nd Corinthians, Chapter 9, says, “God loves a cheerful giver.” Paul explains that the purpose of the giving was to assist those in need. Now the term “liberal” is used to criticize.

I think we need cheerful taxpayers. I object to the bipartisan compromise that extended the Bush tax cuts that were scheduled to expire. We are involved in at least two wars and have increased security issues. We have borrowed from Social Security and other nations. Our country needs to be solvent and it will cost us.

When I was a child during World War II citizens bought war bonds, saved tin cans and endured rationing of food to support our soldiers.

Now we are told we must lay off teachers, cut Medicare and Medicaid, reduce government programs immediately without proper assessment of the implications. Supposedly this is so the money can stay with investors who will create jobs for unemployed. Can we really trust this process?

I am a cheerful taxpayer, planning my budget carefully so I can pay my property taxes and anything owed Uncle Sam. Pensions and Social Security are not taxed by Illinois. Income taxes are based on income — if you don’t have it, you don’t pay. So why so much concern about taxes during a recession? Is it because people spend more money than necessary for things they want, not planning on their obligations to support the society in which we live? Advertisements clamor for our money and we are told that consumer spending supports our economy, therefore, BUY.

I have survived two divorces, cancer, raised four children and now am a widow. I support my church and help with some charities. I like to think that taxes I pay help provide better schools, parks and libraries and make communities safer, sick people well, justice enforced with mercy, businesses regulated, our military supported and our government honest and respected.

I owe less tax now than when I was supporting my children and suspect that politicians try to buy our support by reducing taxes. Please be a cheerful taxpayer.

Ellen McDonald

South Elgin