In our personal lives ....

In our personal lives, most of us realize that the world doesn't owe us a living. Whatever our individual circumstances, we know that we are responsible for doing what it takes to get the things we want in life. We’re responsible for earning a living that provides for both current and future needs. We’re responsible, not just for doing our jobs day by day, but for finding a job in the first place and for acquiring the knowledge and skills it takes to find a job. We’re responsible, not just for paying current expenses like rent and groceries, but for saving some portion of our income for long-term needs like retirement and for unexpected ones like an incapacitating illness.

We’re responsible, not just for getting the kids on the school bus in the morning, but for making sure they are learning what they will need to know in life. And we’re responsible for choosing to bear children in the first place, knowing the long-term commitment it involves and the investment of time and money we might have devoted to other pursuits.