Let’s talk taxes.
Since I just listened to a tax update today I am in an income taxes frame of mind.
No one really likes to pay taxes.
Or, perhaps it is more accurate to say no one likes to pay for taxes when their money goes to pay for things or programs they do not agree with.
After all, I think most people agree that using our tax money to build bridges, keep roads nice (but why is it we cannot make a flat road, let alone have an autobahn?!?!), and make sure our kids are well educated. There are some things that require expansive oversight. Can you imagine what our roads would look like if we were each responsible to installing and maintaining the section of road that runs along our property lines?
And most people agree that $2,000 toilets and $100,000 office redecorating budgets for public officials are a waste of our money.
Then we get down to the things that are more personal. For example, as a veteran I support military spending increases because that means my pension increases and I my health coverage stays amazing. But, I do not want my money to go to generational welfare, unemployment bonuses, monthly payments paid on a per-child basis, or pork projects hidden in stimulus funding bills. You may disagree and that is your prerogative. Part of the reason I served was so you could have the right to respectfully disagree.
Since there is a gratitude movement going on right now I challenge you to list the things you are grateful for when it comes to paying taxes. Start with the prompt: “I am grateful I get to pay income taxes because”…
And, while I have mostly discussed taxes here in the USA, I know everyone in the world can participate. Have fun with it!