The Hancock-Henderson Quill, Inc.

Fighting The Authority

by Dessa Rodeffer, Quill Publisher

23 April 2003

I just don't understand why we have so much trouble submitting to authority. But we all seem to have a problem from time to time.

Whether it is the stop sign at the "Y", the seat belt law, the 20 mph speed zones, the city zoning laws, applying for a permit, waiting your turn in the grocery line, following the rules at school, or listing everything on your taxes..... we seem to want to bend the rules.

Where does it get us but nowhere.

Rules are made for a reason. Some, I agree, are off in left field, but there are always amendments.

Seat belts and reduced speeds have proven to save lives.

Waiting in lines may even help you calm down and avoid stress or worse, an heart attack.

I know that when I use to be forced to wait on the McArthur bridge because of the one-way traffic or work there, I would get a chance to view the beautiful Mississippi which I hadn't had time for or had taken for granted.

It seems for every disadvantage, there is a greater advantage if you look for it.

Take paying U.S. taxes.

It seems we never stop to count the benefits from living in this great country and that it comes at a cost.

It says in the Bible that "To Whom Much Is Given - Much Is Required."

This is so true. Social Security, Health Care/Medicare, Public Aid, Roads and Highways, Health Departments, Librarys, Education, transportation systems, our military and police and those running our elections, or who are keeping track of our government finances, - they all come at a cost.

How much is too much for living in harmony with our neighbors, or for the security of our homeland?

When we look at what other countries do not have doesn't it make you feel ashamed that we bicker over some of the things that we do. Let's try not to complain but be more understanding of another's role and be more supportive of our leaders. Put yourself in their shoes. Many must make decisions that pertain to more than just you and me.