If doing the wrong thing generates income, we'll find a reason to make it make it right. That's pretty much what I heard the governor of Maryland saying this morning on a televised interview. Now I like Hogan, he has done a fine job of running the state, we have a budget surplus and in general things are good. His term is up however, and he has been positioning himself for a run at the presidency. He hasn't made any official statement concerning that, playing his cards close to his chest as the saying goes. Still, if you are watching, paying attention you can see the signs in his actions. He is beginning a campaign of appeasement. His latest is the endorsement of sports gambling throughout the state. You may already live in a state that allows that, draft kings, Caesars, and a few others. It's all betting, all the time. Yes, Governor Hogan is changing his spots a bit, going more for that national appeal. He's a Republican alright, but not a Trump republican or "too" conservative, he wants to be thought of as a hybrid politician now, a "Demlican." That's where you run as a Republican but vote like a Democrat. In short, what's best for me.
I couldn't help but think that as I listened to him explain how good sports gambling will be for the state. It will not only keep the revenue otherwise spent on gambling in other states and illegal gambling but generate revenue for the state that will be used to fund the education system! You know, it's all for the children. Maryland is ranked number four in the nation as far as education. Well, unless you count the Baltimore City Public School system which is under federal investigation for a host of crimes. But we'll ignore that for now. In addition to funding the school system a portion of the revenue generated will go to addiction services. Well because there are those that will develop a gambling problem with this new development, no doubt about that. When you can simply bet on your phone anytime, anywhere and on anything, it will happen. But it will only happen to a few people so it's alright as long as services for recovery are provided. You won't get your money back, but you will learn a tough lesson!
Yes, the governor is positioning himself for a presidential run. He is aware, as I am, that the way to win is to appease the masses. Popularity hinges on allowing others to do exactly what they want. In essence popularity has always been a measure of just that. Doesn't matter if you simply want to be the most "loved" parent or the president of the United States, give them what they want, and you will be popular. And like those parents that practice that, the result may lead them to destruction, to ruin, but they will love you for it. It's all good as long as the enablers also provide the remedy. Programs are available to help you. When the government becomes the enablers, it is for one reason only, to gain power. Power and control.
It's true that we the people, the voting citizens establish our laws. We do that through representation most of the time and sometimes by direct vote. Self-rule is what the founding fathers hoped to establish. That is the primary purpose of a Republic. What is required for that is self-control. We have to be willing to deny ourselves those things known to be detrimental to a society. A national morality. A morality tempered by tolerance and compassion certainly, but not a morality of appeasement.
Sometimes we have to say no! That is what started this whole experiment we call America in the first place! We told the King, no. There were those that were loyalists and Tories, fortunately in the minority, in every colony. They were generally those wanting to protect their fortunes. The Patriots were those opposing the King and did pledge their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor in order to achieve freedom. Despite knowing that, that is what they did. They said no! It was the right thing to do. And that, that is what freedom is all about. It isn't about being free to do whatever you like.
The problem we have today is the loyalists are only loyal to one thing, themselves. The interest is in the ability to do whatever they like regardless of the impact on others. It's about what they want, not what is best. It's about taking the easy road, the shortcuts. The Democrats have historically shown themselves to be those loyalists. Their voting record on the 13,14 and 15th amendment is proof enough of that. The Democrats always say they are the people's party, they are for the middle and lower classes. And they are, they are for keeping the middle and lower classes lower and middle! They are about themselves, not the country. They even tried to leave the country once! Today they are busy attempting to divide the country without borders or boundaries.
Well, tomorrow we celebrate Thanksgiving. I will remain thankful to be an American. No matter what history the Democrats and others try to write or rewrite it won't change the past. And I realize many in Maryland will be thankful they can bet on their sports teams. Many are thankful the state and federal government will be providing them the funds to do so as well. It's alright, public service messages are being broadcast to be sensible when placing your bets. It's like handing your children the candy bowl and saying only eat a few pieces at a time. I'm certain they will be responsible. On the upside however, the state gets some of that money back, for the children, it's a win-win. Turning what's wrong into a right! Now that's progress.
No comments:
Post a Comment