Wednesday, February 16, 2011

A Tax Rant

Tax time makes people grouchy. Have you noticed that? It does. And it seems to make them judgmental as well. I can't tell you how many comments I have heard and read regarding taxes already, and it's only February.

Mostly I let things roll off my back and try not to be offended by people's generalizations, but recently I heard someone say they "hope the low-life scum who can't keep their legs shut enjoy their tax credits," because he/she "was smart enough not to pop out a kid, but doesn't get squat for being smart."

That really struck a nerve with me. Technically I fall under his/her generalization. I'm a single parent claiming a child on my tax form. I will get a decent deduction for being a single mother, and for having worked a rather low-paying job. I've made ends meet. I've never ONCE participated in any government program, even WIC, although I would qualify. I don't look down on anyone who does, it's just been my nature to make it on my own as much as I can, and so far, with the help of my loving fiance, I've been able to do that.

Have I made sacrifices? Absolutely. I have had to do things financially that aren't smart for the long-term. But I have always paid taxes and social security. I have always worked, at least part-time. I have one child who was born to a married mom and dad who owned a home and had two full-time jobs.

I am not a drug-addict. I am not a slut. I am not taking advantage of the system. I am relieved to get a little something back for all the taxes I've paid over the years. Did I plan to be a single mom? Nope. But I am, and I don't appreciate being generalized by someone unintelligent who happened to make more money than I did and did not have a child to care for.

You NEVER know what someone's financial position is, no matter how they portray it to society. So watch what you say. And if you have to pay taxes, I'm sorry. But it's not my fault; I didn't create the tax laws. And it sure as heck doesn't make me a bad person.

1 comment:

  1. People are sometimes rude and inconsiderate! As long as you are happy with your life and content that you are doing what is best for your family, don't let the a holes in the world get you down!

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