DUBIOUS DISTINCTIONS

Born with it
        Some of the most basic needs in this world are not available to many people simply because they were born without any wealth. Some of them are further disadvantaged because they were not born with traits that could make them "successful" in today's world.
        Most of us fit into this class of people described above. We were not born with outstanding intelligence or an iron will to become rich and famous, and we did not inherit great wealth.
        Those who were born with the traits and means to become successful usually do succeed. They become class presidents and go on to bigger and better things. They become doctors and attorneys. They become owners of growing and expanding businesses, or they become corporate executives. Some become Senators and Presidents.
        You can perhaps think of a few exceptions, of course. But for the most part, the people who gain wealth and fame are those who were born with the God given gifts that allowed them to get where they wanted to go.
        These gifted people most often have more than the basic needs at their disposal. Meanwhile, others struggle to obtain the basics.
        What are the basics? Higher education is certainly one. Affordable health care and health insurance could be considered two more important basics. Others might include good nutrition, adequate shelter, sufficient clothing, etc.
        All this comes to mind because of news reports in recent years that Denmark is the happiest country in the world. Danes pay huge taxes, but health care and education are provided to all, and, according to ABC News, extra attention is aimed at children and elderly people, which frees middle aged people from worries about their young ones and their aging parents and grandparents.
        Interestingly, Danes are also happy because of smaller differences in salaries in various fields. Consequently, Danes tend not to base their career choices on income and status so much as they do on the type of work that would be most fulfilling and would make them happy.
        Have you ever wondered about the fairness of a system that rewards some people with wealth and power simply because they were born with the traits or inheritance that could result in wealth and power?
        Apparently, in Denmark, you don't have to worry about whether or not you were blessed with good fortune. Everyone's basic needs are covered, and consequently everyone is happier than the rest of us.

Thanks for the tip
        Thanks, Diane Sander, for unknowingly providing a tip for this week's "B" Section back page feature. She presented a report several months ago to the County Board about the annual Crow River Cleanup Day, and this planted a seed for this week's feature story.