I have lived in other countries and when my wife delivered our daughter in a hospital, in Melbourne, Australia – part of their national health care system, I did not feel cheated or resentful of nurses and doctors who were on the government’s payroll. They have done a superb job and we are eternally grateful for their dedication and professionalism.

To the surprise of many Americans (if they unclog their ears long enough to listen to common sense), it is not uncommon to have dedicated professionals working for a government. And my wife did not have to “hold it” for hours, waiting her turn in a long queue of patients (like so many in this country like to spout about government-run health care); there was no line of misfortunate and unattended, unable to afford to be treated at a “real” [private] hospital. The care was nothing but superb prior to the delivery, during and anytime after that; including visits to numerous doctors and getting various tests done – that are also covered by the National Health Care System (the benefit of the collected taxes).

When Charlie Crist, the governor of Florida, ran for high office position, his theme was “lower taxes!” To no ones surprise, the notion was very popular in Florida and many other places in this vast land of ours. Yet, as a resident of Jacksonville, FL., and a conscious being, I was perplexed by suggestions that one of the worst performing school systems in the country, compounded by the rise in crime and poverty, can be improved by a tax decrease. It’s like telling parents of a malnourished child that less fruits and vegetables will have a healing effect that will lead to a speedy recovery.

My neighbor was lamenting the other day about her daughter, who is a teacher and had her teaching hours cut, as the result of these tax cuts, unable now to spend sufficient time with kids - time needed to help them learn so many things. I know my neighbor well enough to counter, “But didn’t you vote for the tax cuts?” In response she gave me a look of soft indignation that was meant to say, “We have the Right to pay fewer taxes!” (And someone else has the responsibility of making sure that all Americans have access to services that we all need sometimes: good public schools; streets not cluttered with garbage; police officers protecting the public; prompt emergency services when called upon; clean water; public transportation; our veterans’ support, et cetera.)

I’m not sure that I will see (in my life-time anyway) America accepting Responsibility for its social obligations, as well as keeping our government officials accountable for theirs. But I for one know and accept my responsibility to this nation, and paying higher taxes during the times of need is part of being a true American.