I am an old fashioned guy. That is why I still subscribe to two newspapers and actually read both. I know the new generation is more into the Internet and getting however little news it does get from that medium. But if all you do is read the “news” off your computer you would have missed a little gem of a letter to the editor that was in Friday’s (January 22) Daily News.

A gentleman (I’ll call him Mr. X), who actually lives in Santa Clarita, wrote to the newspaper to complain about the possible 25% pay cut that “public sector” employees may have to take if state and local governments continue to run massive deficits. Now don’t misunderstand me, having to take a 25% pay cut is not a good thing for anybody and I can understand why he is upset.

What is astonishing to me is this statement, “I may make $100,000 or so a year but, like so many others, I live above my means………..Remember a few years ago when money (loans) were readily available to most? Well I do, and I took advantage (for lack of a better term). So now I have more “stuff” (which requires a monthly payment) but I have to live paycheck to paycheck. (emphasis added)

On some level you have to admire Mr. X for a having the major cajones to write such a letter. He is the perfect poster boy for the entitlement generation that this country has fostered over the last several decades. It’s all about me and if I am living above my means it’s because you made me do it. By making money so cheap and so readily available you seduced me into borrowing and spending money on “stuff” that I really didn’t need or want. But now that I have it you now want me to live without it?

Here’s a thought Mr. X, stop whining a get a grip. How about selling that boat, sell the RV, don’t buy that SUV and think about what you and your family might have to do if you do have to take a 25% pay cut. Even at $75,000 or so a year you are still making twice the national average. And (unless you are a total screw up) you are a civil servant and can’t be fired. You have a guaranteed job which is more then most people in this country can say.

Mr. X claims, “I am not complaining or looking for sympathy.” Sorry Mr. X but you are. Why else write a letter to the editor that is sure to elicit responses that are going to be anything but sympathetic. My advice is grow up, figure out a way to live within your means and maybe, just maybe, you can save yourself the future embarrassment of writing such a dumb letter.

Simon Weston- Commentary

Simon Weston is a resident of Stevenson Ranch. His commentaries represent his own opinions and not necessarily the views of any organization he may be affiliated with or those of the West Ranch Beacon.