Steve,
That's what it takes, lots of very hard work. We own and run two businesses, work very long hours, pay taxes and feel lucky. "A fool and his money are easily parted" Thomas Tusser
We live in a wonderful part of a wonderful country, sure we pay taxes but there is a lot left over. You live in California, the land that brought us Hollywood, reality TV and the Kardashians. It's gorgeous for sure but far from the reality that the rest of the US is.
I have way more than I wanted and little less than I dreamed! Dreaming big (and subsequently being able to acheive your dreams without government oppression) is what made this country great
Our taxes provide incredable value, from dog catcher to National defence......All of the taxes you've ever paid didn't even pay for one F-22 that congress ordered against the pentagon wishes. The pentagon doesn't need more as they don't help with ground insurgencies but the congressmen want them as a payoff. Value? They're $150million, came in 100% overbudget. Does it feel good to watch every penny you've ever paid in federal taxes go to a plane that has no current purpose and will likely be mothballed soon?
Our taxes make successful business possible. They provide a safe, reasonably level playing field with laws, rules, standards, protection and recourse. Your taxes don't pay for "successful business people". They are paid by successful business people, who in turn have less to reinvest in their businesses, hire more people etc. etc. Taxes aren't necessary to create laws.
And yes they provide a safety net for those less fortunate. Safety nets, which I firmly believe in, have a defined end point, they don't go on in perpetuity like the wasteful govt programs you so cherish.
We get All this and still have lots left........thats value! The county is $16 trillion in debt, that's neither "lots left" nor "value". If you believe it is it's a wonder you're not bankrupt.
I have and will vote for tax increases. See the first response above.
Say Steve, would 1.2 million Walmart employees making enough to pay their Doctor help?