Rules

Don’t Let St. Francis Near the Birdcages!

Many years ago I was driving with my family back to Virginia from New Jersey when we saw a road marker for a state park. We immediately decided to pull off the interstate and eat our bag lunch of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches at the park. I drove into the parking lot, grabbed a picnic table that was located on a grassy spot adjacent to where we parked, and we began to eat. The day was gorgeous, mild weather and not another person in sight. As we bit into our sandwiches, a New Jersey State Park Police car approached. The officer slowly got out, pulled on his Smoky the bear style hat, and sauntered over. Without taking off his sunglasses, he said, “You’ all need a permit to camp at this park.” I explained that we were tired, we had just pulled off the road, and we would be leaving as soon as our young children finished their P&J sandwiches. “Sir you can purchase a one-day permit for $10 from the park headquarters.” I declined. We finished our sandwiches while sitting on our car.

I understand that rules are the price we pay for a civilized society. I also understand that rules have an objective, which should not be the exercise of power. Enforcement is a tool, not a goal. And that brings me to the current debate about the size and role of government. I prefer efficient government that looks after my welfare with respect to law enforcement, safe roads, fire and ambulance services, affordable medical care, and a safety net that offers a balance between providing assistance and requiring me to help myself. I find the Tea Partiers and the Occupiers equally dogmatic in their beliefs, the former for individualism and the latter for government programs. Save us from the intolerant for surely they will impose their views irrespective of my wishes or the outcomes.