Values and Issues

My system of values is based on Christian principles including being truthful, respecting authority, and doing one’s best. One of the most important values in which I believe is loving and serving others. This has led me to spend a part of each summer for the past three years working with ministries to the homeless in Peru, Nicaragua, and New York. When faced with a controversial situation I first determine whether scripture says anything specific about the issue. For example, someone might say that it is all right to steal in certain situations because “the end justifies the means” but I am not swayed by this argument because scripture points out that stealing is wrong. I also value a strong work ethic that applies not only to my schoolwork but also to staying physically fit. My goal in life is to abide by these principles while pursuing my interests in sports, art, and relationships with family and friends. In politics I usually agree more with the Republican Party because of my belief in the sanctity of life and other conservative issues.

One of the most important and controversial issues in the news today is President Obama’s proposed health care plain. The plain is going to affect every American and many people are concerned about its content including the use of the “death book.” The “death book” contains a list of questions asked to disabled veterans to help them determine if their life is worth living. This is objectionable to me because I believe that veterans should not feel as if their lives are not worth living because they are not productive to society anymore. I believe all life is valuable whether it’s a disabled veterans, an unborn child, or an elderly person. Another current issue that is controversial is the “cash for clunkers” or the appliance rebate program. Some people question if this is a good use of taxpayers’ money or whether it has been measured well. Being a conservative, I believe in smaller government and lower taxes so I am concerned when large amounts of taxpayer money is spent.