Redistribution Realized

Today on my way to lunch I passed a homeless guy with a sign that read "Vote Obama, I need the money." I shook my head and laughed to myself.

Once in the restaurant my server was wearing an "Obama 08" tie. Again, I chuckled as he had given away his political preference -- just imagine the coincidence.

When the bill came I decided NOT to tip the server, but explained to him that I was exploring the Obama redistribution of wealth concept. He stood there in disbelief while I told him that I was going to redistribute his tip to someone who I deemed more in need--the homeless guy outside. The server angrily stormed from my sight.

I went outside, gave the homeless guy $10 and told him to thank the server inside as I've decided he could use the money more. The homeless guy was grateful, but I wondered how long it would be before he came to expect and depend on this type of assistance.

At the end of my rather unscientific redistribution experiment, I realized the homeless guy was grateful for the money he did not earn, but the waiter was pretty angry that I gave away the money he did earn, even though the actual recipient deserved the tip money more.

I guess redistribution of wealth is an easier thing to swallow in concept than in practical application.

Imagine if your employer announced employee raises, then withheld those raises and gave the proceeds to a worthy cause instead, possibly even one involving non-workers! How would you feel about the theory of Sen. Obama's plan then?

If the government can take it away from anyone, it can take it away from everyone. Right now, Sen. Obama's line is drawn at $250,000, but how long before it's at $100,000? Or, $50,000?