I just finished reading a book. While the book itself was not really significant or notable, some of the ideas in it made me think, especially in my current situation (and the situation of the country). Specifically, there is an instance in which the Mother Confessor (who is kind of the queen of queens-she keeps the peace between nations of various sizes-especially important for the protection of small nations) is being criticized by those who live in her city (specifically the members of her council and a group called the Imperial Order that is trying to take over the lands between which the Mother Confessor keeps peace). The leaders of the Imperial Order criticize the Mother Confessor in a public trial. She is holding out on her people, they say. She has plenty of gold in her vaults, and will not give it away, in spite of the fact that there are some people unable to feed their families. The Imperial Order says they will give every family one gold coin every week so they can afford to feed their families. Here comes the part that hit home for me: the Mother Confessor thinks about how much gold is in the vaults. She figures what is there will last for about six months before there is none left. By that time, people will be dependent on the government-they believe they will have their meals paid for indefinitely, so they will stop planting their crops and working in order to put food on the table. When that time comes, it will be too late to plant for the coming season, and many more will starve because of a lack of food.
There is a difficult balance in play here-people need to work for what they have, or they forget how to work, and start expecting to receive something for nothing. When the people are not made to work, the government gains instant favor in their eyes-they are getting something for nothing in the moment. Too many forget to think about what will happen down the road-the long term consequences of their action. My generation gives little thought to the future. While I don't like the thought of people starving (at all), I believe a good leader understands the necessity of making some uncomfortable for the betterment of all down the road.
Just some thoughts I've had lately. I'd love to know what everyone thinks.
