More Money Matters

I was recently asked about what I felt would have the best chance of solving the economic crisis we face today. I thought about it a long time because I was thinking of it in terms of what government could do to solve the economic crisis. I am convinced that the steps that were taken at the beginning of this year by Ben Bernanke were needed to avoid a calamity similar to that of 1929. In spite of that, many Americans think that the federal government should do more, and just as many cry that the federal government should be doing less, in order to bring about economic stability.

I finally decided that the key lies in what the American people do on their own-- and not what the President or any particular level of government does. The causes of the economic problems are many and varied but we can't afford to waste time and resources placing blame. What needs to be done involves everyone looking, not toward Washington, DC, but at themselves.

The word “economy” comes from the Greek word for “household management”. This is appropriate because a healthy economy starts at home.

The first step is personal integrity. We must recognize our own responsibilities to live up to our contracts and commitments.

The second step is requiring integrity in elected officials and business leaders. Clear ethical guidelines give voters confidence in their leaders; transparency in business transactions creates trust in the business community. Distrust results in heavy-handed regulations.

The third step is Dedication to our communities. We know the sort of communities we want to live in and it takes work and vigilance to create and maintain them. Everyone has something to offer. I encourage each American to find ways to strengthen the community you live in, including the business that employs you, the schools your children attend, and the services that care for the needy among you.

I remember my father telling me as I was growing up, "Always be worth more than you are paid". By this, he meant go the extra mile. Keep learning on the job. Work longer than the minimum number of hours and make sure that your work is always top quality.

This is different from the attitude I often see now of "What is the minimum requirement?", "How can I beat the system?", and "What's in it for me?"

I believe in the ability of the American people to rise up, take on, and overcome challenges that face us. We have lost ground in the last few years and will need to make sacrifices to regain our position. We must take responsibility for our lives and help others to do the same. Future prosperity requires it.