From TEA to Trash

I have been so very concerned that our America, our great nation of strong, independent, free-thinking individualists is fast becoming weak, dependent and easily manipulated and then suddenly my spirit is restored over, of all things, taxation and trash.

Regardless of whether or not we agree with the underlying issues behind the TEA (Taxed Enough Already) rallies around the nation, we should respect the right to hold those rallies and admire the folks willing to express their views so publicly. On our local level, we've had a bit of a rally at a City Council meeting or two over consolidated trash services.

As with most things, there are many sides to this issue and no easy answer to the ongoing problem of consistent trash removal for all households within the City limits. And like the TEA parties, regardless of how we feel about the issue, we should respect the right to express those views and admire people for their willingness to attend City Council meetings.

So please, folks, keep coming and encourage others to join you even if their opinions differ from yours. We need people to be involved, to present differing views, to voice concern or support. We are rarely silent on any subject at the coffee shop or office or ball game, so put those opinions to effective use and speak out. We may just find some common ground and work out some issues in the process.