Just Stay Focused, Part 2 (The U.S. National Budget)

Message to the 111th United States Congress:

Put your political differences aside and approve President Obama's budget plan. Now!

I don't agree 100% on how the money should be used, and anyone else would be hard-pressed to find another person who does. However, nearly every American feels that there are certain functions our federal government must either perform or enable by providing adequate resources. Most Americans realize the importance of education, a strong infrastructure, and performing scientific research and development in order to achieve and maintain an edge in the global arena.

I agree that the proposed budget has a high price tag. As a matter of fact, it's almost insane. On the other hand, it is insane to not fund projects of this nature - regardless of price. Here's why:

• Education: We need a public education system that not only educates students so they can pass a test. We need this system to help students develop math & science skills, creativity, business skills, and leadership in a way that the students will be able to apply these abilities in real-life situations.
• Infrastructure: We need transportation systems that enable people and goods to move from one place to another. We need to ensure that there are adequate utilities, including electricity, water, heating/cooling, and sanitation. All of this must be provided safely and efficiently for all.
• Research & Development: We need to eliminate our dependence on foreign energy and goods for obvious national security reasons. This is not to say we should eliminate the use of these, as they are invaluable assets - we just need to eliminate our dependence on them.

I am 100% in favor of fiscal responsibility. Responsible budgeting means limiting waste to the maximum extent possible. This side of the issue has been covered by practically every media outlet this side of Ham Lake, Minnesota and just about every one on the other side, as well. Like so many other issues in the media, people take sides and discuss one or two aspects out of many - in this case the main issues discussed are 1) cost and 2) how the money should be used. Unfortunately, to the best of my knowledge, the most important issues have not even surfaced. These being 1) the critical need of America to ensure that education, infrastructure, and R&D are adequately funded, and 2) Return on investment (ROI).

Certain needs must be met - and they must be met at any cost. I am in favor of executing a hundred trillion dollar budget to meet the needs I've addressed, if that is what it takes! If the US national debt continues to rise at the rate it has since World War II (1942), it will surpass the $100 trillion mark by 2023. Dollar amounts are relative, and over the course of time differences in those amounts become relatively insignificant.

If any budget is passed and we fail to fund these issues (education, infrastructure, and R&D) adequately, life as we know it may become relatively insignificant. I am talking about a simple pass/fail system that people who have graduated from our deteriorating education system can understand. Unfortunately, the result, both decidedly and unmistakably, will be FAIL.