Kristen --  I might have slipped by this post, but, like you, something about the floor plan and what on earth you were going to say about it stopped me. I'm glad it did. This post make me do some thinking. I haven't really stretched my economic or political muscles lately, but your post made me want to.

I have two things to say: 1) We need to teach compassion and social responsibility to our children from birth on. I think it should be a mandatory class from K-12th grade. I realize there are lots of parents who would be unhappy about this and feel this isn't "educating" our children. I feel, however, that if we don't do this, then the traditional education will not matter because our tiny planet may not survive.

2) I think there should be a social tax on all people who pay income tax. It can be adjusted depending upon your income, but it should go the health and well being of our children and their families. I do not have faith that the care of our children will become a priority otherwise. 

While there are some wonderful people who donate great amounts, there are just as many who keep every dollar they make. I no longer believe that the wealth in this country is used to stimulate the economy and therefore provide more services/jobs for those in need. It's just not happening! Wow...I haven't spoke my mind like this in a long time, but I must admit it felt good:~)