“A red sun rises. Blood has been spilled this night.” – J.R.R. Tolkien, Two Towers

What is happening. Each day brings more news of efforts to combat the virus. With it comes talk of “help” and “support” that is neatly woven into questions that would fundamentally change things. Permanently .

I’ve talked to many over the years about Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and the Welfare system we have in this Country. Most of the time the ones complaining about those programs are the ones that aren’t on them. The ones that are, seem to welcome the benefit. But the question of sustainability always becomes a question and is with doubt. Most can be easily described as “struggling” or “hemorrhaging”. Yet, with the talk of this recent 2 trillion dollar Corona virus stimulus, I’ve been reading about the possibility of making the monthly payments, permanent. But at what price?

Gotta admit, the prospect of receiving $1,200 a month passive sounds pretty appealing. But only because my long terms plans don’t involve living here. I know that receiving that money routinely will bring different, long lasting problems. Some of which, will not be remedied with more money. Some of which I fear, will prove to become more of a problem than the lack of money. But the discussion is currently on the table. Brought to you courtesy of the recent pandemic. A new way to look at life and how to live it. One that proclaims benevolence and the desire to help; only to possibly become the precursor to control and the lack of independence.

Sure, there will always be some that will take that route regardless of what system is in place. As it has been said, “The poor will always be with us“. But what of free will? The right to choose? Independence? Will those things always remain with us too? I question that. I question that because it would seem that there are some that would have us dependant on the State. Not for the assumption of ill intentions, but of misguided benevolence. The result being tyranny non-the-less.

Who are we, as a Nation? It would seem that some aren’t asking that question.

The greatest in American achievements and ingenuity have not come from security and comfort; but of turmoil and challenge. Overcoming, changing, and adapting to address any circumstances we are faced with; how are those acts employed in comfort? What is conquered, what growth is achieved in security? Is personal development acquired without conflict?

We are indeed witnessing a War; not one of a virus, but of ideologies. And they’re winning. What a seemingly great opportunity this virus has brought to those who would choose to rule us. The narrative has changed. It’s becoming more and more accepted. “Stay home, Save lives!” , only seems like the right thing to do, if it’s temporary. Eventually, people need to get back to work.

But as the rates of infection increase, the cry for help gets louder; and I can only hope, that once the virus subsides, the American spirit of independence doesn’t go with it.

© Jacob C. Larson 2020 All Rights Reserved