More money will not solve poverty problem

Much of the national dialogue for the past 50 years has focused on the issue of poverty. Wars have come and gone. Social issues have evolved and changed the fabric of society. Technology has advanced at break-neck speed.

But poverty remains largely unchanged.

We are urged to focus on the wide gap between the haves and have nots.

But that is a phony argument that ignores our failures to improve the plight of the "least among us" - the current buzzword for poverty.

By all accounts, this great nation has spent literally trillions of tax dollars to improve the financial position of the poor.

And by all accounts, the progress made has been far less than successful.

Keep in mind our national definition of poverty would be defined as borderline affluence in many parts of the world.

So why and how have we failed?

The left will always argue that poverty exists because "the man" is doing too little to help those in the greatest need.

And even today's headlines continue the drumbeat of higher taxes and expanded federal spending to lift those at the bottom of the economic ladder.

Conservatives, like myself, often quote two Bible verses when the discussion of poverty surfaces.

"God helps those who help themselves."

"Give a man a fish, you have fed him for today. Teach a man to fish and you have fed him for a lifetime."

But actually, neither of these quotes are in the Bible.

But here are some verses that may apply to the discussion.

"If a man will not work, he shall not eat."

"Lazy hands make a man poor but diligent hands bring wealth."

"He who works his land will have abundant food but he who chases fantasies lacks judgement."

I realize that walking into the weeds of Bible quotes will bring the wrath of the liberal mini-minds.

So take your shot!

The issue of poverty - in a bit of irony - is not solved by money.

There are but two solutions to poverty - expanded opportunities and improved personal choices.

Society has consistently for 50 years spent trillions to expand opportunities.

But improving personal choices is outside of society's control.

The resentment and push back of producers does not stem from greed nor lack of compassion.

It stems from witnessing poor choices that squander opportunity and guarantee a continued path of poverty.

It's time we had an honest discussion on poverty that addresses not just the question of expanded opportunities but also discusses personal responsibility and poor choices.