Wow. At least I can spell Testament. I have read it before. Obviously you haven't been around long enough to know that hurling references to the Bible will not change my mind in any way. Save it for the Christians.

I never said anyone lives "well" on welfare--you're putting words into my mouth. Welfare is a program that people are supposed to use to get back on their feet after a job loss or other tragedy. But people abuse it and use the welfare system as a permanent income instead of a temporary income. That's what I have a problem with. Not the system itself, or the fact that people need to use it...I have a problem with those who abuse it. Don't even try and tell me people don't. Remember Katrina? How many people abused the system then? And that was just one tragedy.

I agree with mmm. I'd rather keep more of the money I earn. I do not tithe, I rarely give money to organizations like United Way. I give items, like clothing and blankets(which we are currently bagging up tons of old clothes, some of them in brand-new condition) to Goodwill or the Salvation Army.

It is not my responsibility to pay for someone else's mistakes. I give what I can, but I don't think that anyone should be required to do so. Are they going to help me? I was unemployed for awhile, I wasn't offered any handouts. We even considered signing up for food stamps at that time. But I didn't, because I knew it was a last...very last...resort for me. I got a job, and got back on my feet.

Like I said, I give what I can, when I can. Plenty of others do the same. Some of my tax money already goes to government programs to help the homeless and whatnot, I really would rather they not take any more.

Ironic you pick out teachers and lawyers...since I'm a teacher and my husband is in law school. Coincidence? Both provide needed services to the community. Lawyers have to go through quite a bit more schooling, and it is expensive. I got out in 5 years (my degree was a required 5 years unless you were crazy and took 22 credit hours/semester). My education cost pennies compared to the debt my husband will be in once out of law school.

I'm on a bit of a tangent here, and I apologize for that. You obviously were either part of a fraternity that only focused drinking contests, and have never seen the good things they can do. I have seen the good side. Granted, their contribution may be smaller than other organizations, but they are students, and isn't a small contribution better than no contribution at all?