| The United States national debt, growing larger by the hour, could dramatically affect your future and mine, as well as fellow citizens, now and for generations to come. “How did the debt become so large?” someone is sure to ask. After the 13 colonies became the United States of America, the national debt continued to be manageable. Despite the War of 1812, the struggle between the North and the South, two world wars, a depression, and other debt accumulations, the repayment mechanism hummed along in low gear. From 1983 to the present time, the debt has been rocketing upward. An ever-rising debt load indicates the United States spends far more than the nation takes in. For example, in 1996 the national debt increased almost $30 billion, a princely sum. A billion equals a thousand million. That same year, the debt surpassed the $5 trillion mark. A trillion dollars represents a million million dollars. February 7, 2004, the United States national debt surpassed the $7 trillion level. “What can I do to help stem the ever-increasing debt?” concerned citizens are asking. Write or call your representative in Washington, including the president, and ask what they are doing to reduce this horrendous debt. If they fail to answer satisfactorily, vote the culprits out of office. Possibly our next president could possess the wisdom of King Solomon and the governing ability of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. You could also ask questions of The Concord Coalition, a group dedicated to reducing the federal deficit. You may call them at their toll-free number: 1-888-333-4248. Their address is: The Concord Coalition; 1011 Arlington Blvd., Suite 300; Arlington, VA 22209. Their website is located at: www.concordcoalition.org. I am 96. Never before have I witnessed a debt condition of the magnitude that we are now experiencing. If the federal debt continues to escalate, when it reaches the $10 trillion mark the people living in the United States and worldwide would feel the repercussion. If you have questions or comments about this website or page, e-mail: mary@vanmeer.com© 2004 Leo VanMeerReturn To Top |