Respose to Obama's statement in Turkey

[ponch]

Generally speaking, those that have created wealth offered something in return. You act as if they stole it. If you have something to offer that has value, then do so. Any of us can go solo and start a business that offers something people need and in return they are rewarded. At least CEO's actually manage and lead something of consequence. I find it is insane that someone gets paid millions to hit a ball or drive a car in circles, but that is what the market bears. When people cease to support such activities, then the participants have to find something else to do. Taking something earned by someone and giving it to someone else is not justice. It's a utilitarian nightmare and it's stealing. No matter what, ultimately we are responsible for our own lot in life and we are lucky enough to live in a country where people can make their own way. I refuse to see people as ultimately victims. Yes there are power structures that exist that exert control, like governments, unions, and political action groups like acorn, etc. Ultimately freedom requires responsibility and both are individual, not collective. This is something even Thomas Jefferson understood. Lastly, I am not one of the haves, or the have nots, just someone that believes that I can do better and make my own way because I did it.

[markusmaximus]

OK boys. I see I'm fighting a senseless battle. While I've offered supporting facts and reasonable arguments in support of my views, you've relied on "philosophical" rhetoric, sarcasm and platitudes while reducing me to ranks of the ignorant.

It's been fun.

[glwilson]

Didn't mean to do that -- so I pulled out all my comments on this thread.

But know your beliefs are clearly a threat to me and those that believe differently than you -- and that you'll never change my mind on these issues.

I believe they will not be for the good of people when all is said and done.

[ponch]

Markus, there was no intent or deed of ad hominem attacks on my part. I try to keep it clean. It's about riding, no? Everyone has an opinion, and that's fine.

[markusmaximus]

Originally Posted by ponch

Markus, there was no intent or deed of ad hominem attacks on my part. I try to keep it clean. It's about riding, no? Everyone has an opinion, and that's fine.

You are indeed right Ponch. Somehow our differences seem less significant when we're riding.

I do think we have more common ground than our love of Nomads. I see from your blog page you are a Rush fan. Same here. Unfortunately, they'll never be well understood by the general listening masses. But then, I probably wouldn't be a fan.

I will keep reading you blogs as I can see Rand's influence in your thinking. But more on that another time.

Thanks for keeping it clean. I'm cool.

Originally Posted by glwilson

Didn't mean to do that -- so I pulled out all my comments on this thread.

But know your beliefs are clearly a threat to me and those that believe differently than you -- and that you'll never change my mind on these issues.

I believe they will not be for the good of people when all is said and done.

Thanks for retracting your comments Greg. You and I have had many spirited "discussions" about such matters, and I've always respected how you've carried yourself. We will continue to disagree, and that's ok.

[glwilson]

No problem Markus. I appreciate it. Didn't mean to get "mean-spirited". It is obviously an emotional and very personal issue for me.

In the meantime... keep the sun in your face and the wind at your back!!

Greg

[NRiderUSA]

Wow, with that kind of rationalization, all the bald people should demand that anyone with hair cut it off...... its not fair.
Are you that naive to believe that any society is perfect? Yeah there are loop holes that made millionaires out of a lot of low life people who took advantage of the loop holes.... where do you think the Kennedy's got rich. You know Kerry's old lady owns Heinz, and they shipped their jobs overseas?? Dig as deep as you want, but dont just dig on one party or topic.

How many politicians’ arent millionaires? you think they got it by cutting lawns?
How do you think Obama and Michelle managed to get where they are? Food stamps?

The "dont take it to extremes" statement is absurd. That is how and what Obama got elected on was making "extreme" comparisons and targeting his fellow millionaires.

And no I am not one of the chosen ones.... I have worked my whole life and been shot down a lot in it. I am white so I didnt qualify for the programs that do try and compensate for the differences between rich poor/ race etc.......... But you know what, I'm not looking for the free ride called socialism that is happening either.
Liberty is the right to pursue.... no the promise of free ride.

[NRiderUSA]

Yeah and we do all ride Nomads, so that must count for something.

Freedom is a very touchy subject......

[ponch]

I play the drums, so Neil Peart is a favorite for sure. The Professor also likes to ride.

Originally Posted by Markus Maximus

You are indeed right Ponch. Somehow our differences seem less significant when we're riding.

I do think we have more common ground than our love of Nomads. I see from your blog page you are a Rush fan. Same here. Unfortunately, they'll never be well understood by the general listening masses. But then, I probably wouldn't be a fan.

I will keep reading you blogs as I can see Rand's influence in your thinking. But more on that another time.

Thanks for keeping it clean. I'm cool.

Thanks for retracting your comments Greg. You and I have had many spirited "discussions" about such matters, and I've always respected how you've carried yourself. We will continue to disagree, and that's ok.

[markusmaximus]

Originally Posted by ponch

I play the drums, so Neil Peart is a favorite for sure. The Professor also likes to ride.

Yes, BMWs. http://www.motorcyclemuseum.org/news...ages/peart.jpg

Alex also rides (an HD I've heard), but not hardcore like Neil. If you haven't already, read Peart's Ghost Rider, a challenging and amazing read. Talk about iron butt!

Maybe Geddy will get a Nomad?