We live in taxing times, but guess what? Our ancestors did, too, although most would admit it does seem as if taxes are more onerous these days. But it’s the perception of a heavy tax burden (whether that is accurate in a specific case or not) that is fueling debate over fair taxation.
The vitriol is rising to an all-time high as 2014 rolls in, because everybody has an opinion on how we should levy taxes on ourselves, collectively speaking. Even so, most taxpayers are much more irked by those notoriously complicated tax-filing forms than they are by the money they must fork over to fund the government.
However, deep down Americans know a peaceful collection of revenue is essential to keeping the American machine humming along, ensuring our meat is safe to eat, our borders are safe from attack and our infrastructure stays in tip-top shape. That’s why one group in Texas says they love taxes!
In some ways the debate on taxation touches a deep nerve in the American psyche. We all know taxes are necessary for a civilized society and every one of us has benefited from various public works and government programs. But when it’s time to tally what can be put on the chopping block, few can agree on what programs should be eliminated. In 2013 the disagreement on taxation actually shut down the Federal government for a time.
And there is a danger in the temptation to point to the other guy – the one who pays less taxes or those who benefit from what some consider is a too-generous tax shelter. Yet we all need to remember that our most precious resource in the U.S. is us! Maybe some would argue that a large storehouse of petroleum, or a well-equipped standing army, or even those amber waves of grain are our most valuable assets. And those resources are very valuable, indeed. But in an era of technologically fueled advances, our people are the key to our prosperity.
When you file those IRS forms, remember we tax ourselves, we invest in America collectively and we willingly, through the democratic process, aim to divide our nation’s assets in an equitable way. It’s not perfect, and there will always be special interest groups, but take time to consider what an amazing thing it is to peacefully tax ourselves and to use that revenue to ensure our nation remains strong for generations to come!
Be proud you pay your taxes. (P.S. Just don’t pay more than your share!)