To the Editor:

In response to the Nov. 14 letter to the editor authored by Steven M. Wilson, I applaud Mr. Wilson for furthering his education, staying informed about happenings in his home community, but am more than a bit dismayed by the idealistic and narrow view he holds, enhanced by his limited experience and youth.

First, those receiving Social Security have paid into the system since long before your illustrious presence on this planet. Second, people are losing their homes, the financial crisis has left many wondering if they will have jobs tomorrow, and those on fixed incomes are having an increasingly difficult time even making ends meet. Please explain to me why the youth are “owed” this override? I’ve visited local schools and can tell you there are more “things to do” than I have ever seen. Outrageous amounts are spent on the salaries of administrators, many of whom can’t manage basic math or determine obscene words in the grade school work. For proof, one need look only as far as the “approved” work of elementary schools or the last override.

Many of us are concerned about personal comfort, things as a roof, food, jobs and other “incidentals.” Shame on us for such selfish reasoning. Perhaps young Mr. Wilson would be well-served to look how his generation has lived in a world of excess, all provided by well-meaning parents who failed to understand they fostered unreasonable expectations. While I’m at it, shame on you, Steven, for thinking higher education is some kind of God-given right when previous generations waited, paid for it ourselves, no loans involved.

In difficult economic times, we must learn to do without, from individuals to government. No, it’s not pleasant but it’s called life. Tighten the belt, do our best until times improve, which they will. Having been involved in the music industry since your parents were young, I know how important music is. I also know that sometimes it means parents need to fill more of the gaps. But continually passing the tin cup gets old, something you will find out when you’re my age, and it’s not always the solution.

Your letter solidified my belief that education doesn’t always lead to enlightenment, that sometimes we need to put the brakes on tossing money out toward something that appears ill-designed, and that perhaps we need to look more closely at our educational system. Balance, young Steven, may I suggest you learn it and give thanks to old gaffers like me who’ve ensured you’ve lived so well instead of complain that we don’t do more.

Sally Acevedo

Sierra Vista