The title question is one that I have asked people over the years when they fell on hard times, came to me for help through the rough spot, and then stopped trying help themselves, becoming dependent on me to provide for their subsistence while they used their assets for their enjoyment. We all go through rough spots in our lives where we need some help from other people, but when or if a person stops trying to make it on their own and begin to take advantage they no longer need help. At that point, they need motivation to provide for their needs and wants on their own. The best thing that you can do for them is to say "NO!" My asking of that question is my way of saying it and, to date, no one has ever been able to show that I am indebted to him or her when I ask it.

I ask it now as a member of the public to the people who have made welfare a way of life. What do we owe you if you are not going to help yourself? If you need a job, an education, or anything else to live, it is up to you to do it or starve.

I received welfare benefits during two periods of my life. The first time, I worked my out of the system and the last time I had to go on VA Disability but even now I could find ways of supporting myself at a subsistence level without a government check. I did something during my life to qualify for VA and Social Security benefits that I ended up needing, but it irks me to see people who appear to believe that the world owes them life with little or no effort on their part.

One of the arguments for "turning a blind eye" to illegal immigration is that these people do the work that Americans will not do. Why won't Americans work? Is it because they will be fed, housed, and otherwise provided for even if they don't? It doesn't take any education to pick fruit, chop cotton, or dig ditches, but after a few days of doing it to have a bowl of beans you will be motivated to improve yourself.

Americans, if you are fit and able enough to get off your butts, it is time to do so! It is time to be independent rather than dependent if you can. We, the public, are willing to give you a hand for a time, but there is a point where the handout stops. Some of you are way beyond that point.

What say you?