I agree with the governor regarding reforming welfare. I am happy to see that many people have been helped by ASPIRE & TANF, helped by the programs the way they are supposed to work.

While I have no experience with these programs, I do have an observation. A commentary on May 17, “Governor’s welfare reforms build on past successes,” mentioned how (some) young people have an attitude of entitlement, and some take advantage of welfare programs. I am aware of an establishment where ASPIRE sends people to work. It absolutely blows my mind how these kids call in daily with a lame excuse, but they still get paid. Maybe they don’t realize that it’s going to catch up with them. You don’t get something for nothing in this world, at least not for long.

As a baby boomer, I just shake my head in amazement. We never got away with that.

I was 17 in the late 1970s, and was headed down the wrong path. I joined the Air Force ,and it was the best decision of my life. There was no attitude of entitlement there.

Many of these young people have the opportunity to join the military services, and I tell kids all the time to join the Air Force. Opportunities grow slimmer even for those who want to make something for themselves.

Young people need to learn that nothing will be handed to them all their life. They need to stand on their own two feet, work and accomplish things themselves. They will learn how good it feels to say, “I did that.”

I’ll keep my fingers crossed for them. They can do it.

Deborah Phair

Farmingdale

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