I served in Argentina as a missionary a little more than 30 years ago. One of the movies I like to watch is Evita because I see things in the movie that bring back memories of when I was there between 1977 and 1979.
I was watching the movie yesterday and came to the conclusion that there are some parallels from that situation that I see in our culture today. After the military powers conceeded to release Peron from encarceration he resigned from the military and started his campaining for political office. The labor unions were instrumental in securing his release from prison and his election as president.
The unions bonded with Peron because he made promises that enticed their senses of entitlement. He promised to restore the greatness of Argentina by strong government. The era of people just disappearing because they did not espouse the policies of Peron's government began.
The Robin Hood of Argentina took from the wealthy and gave to the poor. When I was in Argentina I saw row houses that were built by the government for the poor. Low interest loans were created to allow the poorest to become home owners.
Some of the row houses were well kept and clean. Some of the houses were surrounded by trash and dead yards with broken fences, broken windows, and no remaining floors in the house.
I came to the conclusion that those that have to make an investment to attain something take much better care of it.
This sense of entitlement led to the bankruptcy of Argentina. Industry was swallowed by the government and productivity was hampered. Inflation was rampant.
As a missionary I was prohibited by rules of the mission to discuss politics. I see that this was wise. I was ignorant of the root cause of the poverty of Argentina's people. I am now convinced that a sense of entitlement instead of a sense of opportunity is at the root of their financial problems.
I am glad that I have the opportunity to be rewarded based on my industry and investment. I can see that this is the way it should be.
The Sleepover
1 year ago
The same things are happening in our country today. It is important to vote and be involved in helping to get the constitution back in its place. America is a great country and it will be up to us to help it be a safe place to live.
ReplyDeleteI remember you sending money that had no value home in your letters.
You are right. To work for what we get is so important.