Beyond greed (#1098)

I want to write about something that is bothering me. I know that average normal people look for great ways to add to their retirement accounts by using the tax code to their advantage as it relates to their nest eggs. It is understandable since most Americans make little extra money these days. But, and I mean but, when rich people use the tax code to add to their wealth, since they already have plenty for retirement, then they have crossed the line and are more representative of what greed does to a soul. I do not mind that some can make millions of dollars and continue to do so but what I do mind is that once an amount needed for retirement has been obtained, the continuing of taking advantage of tax codes or even lobbying for tax codes that benefit them even further, at the expense of national interest, is absurd and beyond greedy. Our national interest is something we all can take pride in. We are a noble species capable of so much more yet when our individual economic goals are more than met, we tend to get a god complex and see ourselves of worthy of all the best without regard to what is left for others. It is the mindset of selfishness. Motivation and driven work ethic are admired and should be rewarded but not at the expense of the national interest. Practically none of our individual success could have come without the environment of our American society. We all owe our forefathers and predecessors a huge debt, which is why we must pay forward the advantages and opportunities we received and were lucky and foresightful to be a part of. Creating more opportunity without regard to our own self interest is the starting point. Remember, those who have enough and more to retire on have a duty to humanity to create an atmosphere of opportunity for those who don't. Life is short and the quality of life we live should be our number one priority and purpose.