What's your poison?

I've had so many various conversations, both via social media and in person, with so many different people about politics. There is a common thread. Government is too big and it spends too much money.

The problem is, no one in DC really wants to relinquish power. Everyone is convinced his or her role is essential. It doesn't matter what side of the isle is represented. The Left believes that the people need to be protected from the evil consequences of free enterprise, environmental gremlins and such. The Right believes the people should be protected from evil doers and moral infractions, such as same sex marriages and abortion.

Both isles require the invasion of government in our lives. Perhaps the invasion of Left Wing policies aren't immediately noticed. For example, if the left imposes energy policies on oil companies, I might not make the direct connection of this imposition to the price of gas. But if the government wants to make it illegal to have an abortion, or imposes the Patriot Act to keep me safe, I as an individual will feel that encroachment directly. These are encroachments imposed by the government, both of which designed to exercise power.

So, which poison do you choose? Do you believe that a reduction in Government is really possible? Do you think that those calling for a smaller government would actually eliminate those programs supported by their party?

I don't believe that it's possible to reduce the size of the government. I don't believe that the people in D.C. will ever experience the urgency to do it because they are all so far removed from the laws they impose.

Whatever our founding fathers had in mind for our country, I am of the opinion it has been twisted and reshaped. Even if we all read the constitution, as Cain suggests (though I'm not so sure he's read it himself), understanding the true spirit of the constitution, bill of rights and declaration of independence has to be taught. Children should be taught critical thinking so that they be able to draw their own conclusions about everything from religion to environmental issues.

I'm saddened by the course we're on but selfishly relieved that I won't have to live it years from now.