Why I would Occupy....

It’s not about looking for a redistribution of wealth; it’s about looking for a livable wage.

It’s not about looking for a handout; it’s about looking for a change in job security.

It’s not about being lazy; it’s about wanting jobs to exist so that one is not seen as lazy.

It’s not about causing hate and discontent; it’s about seeking change and stability for all.

It’s not about being unpatriotic; it’s about showing the ultimate in patriotism.

It’s not about rioting; it’s about showing solidarity in a peaceful way.

It’s not about the youth of America not wanting to work; it’s about Americans from all walks of life taking a stand because jobs don’t exist for them to work. Veterans, older Americans, displaced workers of all ages, students, and teachers, everyone who is trying to look for work and just cannot find it because the jobs are not there.

You cannot evict an idea whose time has come.

You cannot live on minimum wage unless you work 40 hours a week and are single; even then, it’s difficult in most parts of the country.

You cannot repress those who are already feeling repressed; they are taking a stand against the oppression they already feel.

To answer non-violent protests with violence and abuse makes one look like a bully. Violence is never the answer.

There has to be a peaceful resolution to this. It is time for the corporations who have taken all those jobs overseas to be taxed to the point that it is more cost effective for them to bring that labor and industry home instead of being rewarded. It is time for there to be a living wage, not a minimum wage. It is time for quality healthcare for all instead of preferential treatment for the wealthy. It is time for the country to take care of its veterans instead of discharging them from the service without getting them the help they need unless the veteran finds a good advocate to help them through the red tape. It is about taking care of our elderly instead of cutting their Medicare and Social Security.

It is time for Americans to stand together and support their fellow man, woman and child, old and young, veterans and civilians alike.  It is time to look beyond ourselves and look at our brothers and sisters, friends and enemies, and see how this economic recession is affecting them. Instead of whining about having to pay more at Starbucks for your cup of coffee, remember that what you are paying for is helping the person serving you across the counter survive and pay for food/rent/school/etc. Instead of whining about your insurance premiums, remember that you are lucky enough to have insurance at all and that many who need medical help cannot get it without going bankrupt.