Saturday, November 19, 2016

When

Over the past few days I have read some of the reactions to our most recent presidential election with mixed emotions. Many of the comments have been very divisive as has been this election, so it becomes difficult to not get emotional when comments are made about the candidate one has backed. I think this emotion has led to people expressing their thoughts in ways that may not be deemed appropriate by our society.

There is one comment that was posted on Facebook the day after the election that has haunted me since and that I feel the need to comment upon. The person made a comment on how the result of this election was a vote for the top 1% and large corporations.

What has bothered me most about this comment was not the comment itself but the attitude it reflects - that it is no longer acceptable for us to strive to be wealthy; that those who are weathy are lesser people who are not paying their fair share.

So I ask...when did it become unacceptable for people in this country to strive to become wealthy? When did we change from the principles that our country was founded upon which include opportunities for all to be successful, to an attitude that if you are wealthy then you are filthy, dirty, and one to be dispised?

I find it ironic that many of the people in the public eye are as wealthy as those they make derogatory comments about. They are what they protest against.

When we were growing up, my siblings and I, were encouraged to work hard and strive to do our best. We were taught to save our money so that we would have it when we needed it most. Success was praised. Failure was not accepted. I remember always wanting to emulate successful people and work harder so that I could achieve the successes and financial security that others have achieved.

Now anyone who is successful seems to be vilified. When did this happen?

We seem to have evolved into a nation that believes that we are helping if we give people everything rather than expect them to work for it. We are now a nation that rewards laziness, tells people they are not capable of succeeding, and punishes success. This is leading to a nation of people who believe they are entitled to everything without earning anything. They believe they can't do it on their own and that others should pay for what they want and need. That is not reality. If they want to have the perks, they need to earn the perks! It is not up to someone else to provide for their needs. It is up to you to do that.

Yes, there are those who need a safety net from time to time. I am all for providing that safety net for them, temporarily; until they can get back on their feet. I am not in favor of that safety net becoming a lifestyle for healthy capable people.

I know many of the people who are posting comments about giving people more entitlements. I know that these people did not raise their children to think that way. Their children were raised to be successful, independent adults who strive to do their best in everything that they do. They are striving to earn more money so that they can acquire more wealth. So why is it that these same people believe that it is appropriate to hand people money for not earning it? Why do these same people dispise the wealthy and large corporations? Without the ingenuity of those people we would not be enjoying many of the conveniences we enjoy in this country today.

The old adage, "Give a man a fish and he eats for a day; teach a man to fish and he eats for a lifetime." seems to fit here. While teaching their children to fish, these parents believe in giving others the fish which makes them more dependent on all of us. Let's help raise people up by teaching them the skills they need to be successful. Let's give them the tools to create more wealth for themselves.

Who's with me?

I try very hard not to get too political in these posts because that is not the purpose of this blog. However, this attitude that the rich are defiled and expected to pay for those who would rather be lazy and not seek employment is something I cannot keep quiet about. This nation was built on hard work, ingenuity, and the constant striving for success. It is my belief that we would all benefit if we could bring that attitude back!

Pre - Christmas Sale

Just in time for Christmas, pricing for all of our birthstone necklaces and bracelets has been reduced! Purchase a stunning 18 inch birthstone necklace for $15.00 and the matching bracelet for $7.00. Reduced pricing is limited to the inventory on hand. Any special orders will be at the regular price of $20.00 necklaces and $8.00 bracelets.

https://www.etsy.com/shop/cruisincreations?section_id=14668723

https://www.etsy.com/shop/cruisincreations?section_id=14668723

Upcoming Events

We have had so much fun returning to our favorite craft show sites this fall! Reacquainting with our fellow crafters and customers while meeting new ones has made each event one to remember!

Sunday, November 20, we will be at the Soroptimist International Craft Fair at the Gloversville Middle School, 234 Lincoln St, Gloversville, NY from 10 am - 4 pm.

On November 26 we will be at the Saratoga City Center, 522 Broadway, Saratoga Springs, NY from 10 am - 4:30 pm. 

Both events are artisan shows where you can meet the artist while you shop their displays!

Until Next Time...

Diane