Desperate Measures

Desperate times, generally call for desperate measures, but is America prepared for it? The economic chaos that far too many Americans find themselves in, is leading to practices the law does not look fondly upon. Robbery, drug dealing, and prostitution has been quick cash for years in America. However, are we headed down a fatal path? I was told a story this evening about a man in Westland,Mi. who was being pursued by authorities for armed robbery of a retail outlet. Fleeing from authorities, the suspect entered a local neighborhood. In his pursuit of safety, he went into an unlocked garage. Officers combed the streets and spoke with homeowners, and one eventually suggested they look in her garage. The astonishing part of this story, is that while we generally have respect for officers, the police sent the woman in the garage first, where she and the man stood eye to eye. This woman is my friend and one of my bosses, and what she expressed to me after telling the story is what is hopeful for all of us. Continuing the story, she mentioned how too many people are driven to this, they "snap" and we have to recognize that. Good on you Becky.

These stories are not far fetched in Metro Detroit, it never ends in a city that has been begging for a bailout for decades. Gamblers are angry that the ATF raided a local bar for gambling, friends and family are grieving the death a 27 year old prescription drug dealer who U.S. Marshalls shot 18 times after he barricaded himself in his home for 10 hours, the rash of auto theft in the area. I mention these stories, well knowing there are thousands of these around the country, but these are in my immediate area. Look at where we are America? Unemployment claims are at a 26 year high, and people are scared. This does not justify the actions of criminals, but it does make one wonder whether or not the wounds that ail America are self inflicted? Bill Maher was spot on when he stated that we look a "little silly waving the big foam #1 finger chanting USA, when we rank 67th in this, 42nd in that and on and on".

I don't have any answers, I only have questions. With health care providing looking more like thieves than caretakers, Wall St. looting the federal reserve, the Big 3 in turmoil, trade agreements making the working class obsolete, and federal funds to essential social benefits being cut quicker than the melting ice caps is it any wonder we are here? With a newly elected Congress and President-Elect we see a glimpse of rescue, but the roads we must travel in the next handful of years are full of twists and turns that some won't survive. While this post of cynicism lacks any self deprecating humor I usually indulge in, I hope it serves as a reminder that while we all were walking on sunshine after Barack Obama became the 44th President, the work ahead is going to require diligence and compassion.