by Ashley Murphy

I am blessed to be living in America. I am blessed that I was born an American. I love my country and all of the freedoms our great Constitution allows us. Most of all, I am grateful for my ability to freely choose how my life can be lived.

Up until March 21st.

Don't get me wrong. I'm not saying that since that date I no longer love my country. I just no longer love how this country is being"ruled." I think that word is quite appropriate for the events of the past several months. I also can't say that I absolutely loved how things were being handled during the Bush era, but since Obama came into office, this country has taken a turn for the worse.

I know there are several people out there that greatly disagree and may even have a few thoughts running through heads that they wish they could say to my face after reading this. But, this latest "push" by the President has me absolutely infuriated. Mostly because, it directly affects me and my life as I'm living it right now.

I don't have health insurance. Main reason, I can't afford it. As well as millions of other Americans in this country. Difference here, I don't go to the doctor unless I have the money to pay for it...up front. That's it.

Those paying high premiums on their insurance to cover others who don't have the money or go to the emergency room on the bill of other Americans, agree with this new "ObamaCare" plan. But, again, I will not go to the emergency room unless highly imperative. I understand there are cases where I could be a victim of some freak accident or I could have a major car accident and have no choice but to be taken to a hospital. In this case, I plan on having to pay that bill for the rest of my life. This may sound absolutely preposterous to some, but right now, that's the way it is for me.

My main concern, all of those people out there who don't think like me when it comes to this kind of situation. I understand there are people out there on welfare or who have lost their job, receiving government and taxpayer help, who are genuinely trying to make a living in the world. Putting out every effort that they have to be able to get by and provide for themselves and their family. I am understanding with those people and can see their need for help. Others on the other hand, tend to sit back and relax. Taking the help they receive for granted. Taking the taxpayer for granted. Taking hospitals and other services for granted. There are also illegal immigrants coming into our country every day who take all of these things for granted, as well. Yet, the government allows these people to continue to abuse the system. 

Which brings me to the reason I question this new health care bill. It's going to hurt me. It's going to take my money. Quite a big chunk of my money. Whether I like it or not. I won't see any benefits from the taking of my money for a few years. I will essentially be fined on top of that for not having health insurance. More of my money gone. Someone please tell me where all of my money, my hard earned money, is going if it's not benefiting me, like the government says that it is.

I'm paying for this bill, and everyone else out there like me is paying for this bill. What about all of those who are taking the system for granted? Those who don't have jobs? Those who aren't here legally, yet receive all the perks of a United States citizen? Please tell me how the government is going to fine them for not having insurance, or how they are going to take money out of their paycheck each month to pay for such a scheme.

They aren't. Bottom line. It disgusts me.

What I believe is even worse, the absolute arrogance and manipulation that went into the passing of this health care bill. Backroom deals, bribery and "compromises." Nancy Pelosi's smug announcements. Obama's egotistical attitude and high-fives. And Joe Biden's newfound use of profanity to declare what a "big deal" this bill is.

After the bill passed through the House, Obama declared it "a reform package finally worthy of the people we serve." Continuing later to say, "This is what change looks like."

Wake up, America. This isn't service. This isn't your right to choose. And this isn't the change I want to see. This is government making your decisions for you. This is your freedoms slowly dwindling down a spiral.

If you don't agree, then I hear England may just be the place for you. Plenty of taxes. Plenty of restrictions. A plethora of laws. And a sole ruler to govern your every move.

I'm just curious to know how long you would last before begging to come home to the freedom of America...

"The greatest dangers to liberty lurk in insidious encroachment by men of zeal, well-meaning but without understanding."
-Louis D. Brandeis

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