September 19, 2006
by Robert T. Melaccio Sr.

Well the title of the article says it all. In my opinion the answer is yes we can see. However, I will ask you if it matters? The answer to that question is no. So in my humble way I will give you my opinion and some examples as to why I believe this is so. All I ask is of you if you have the time or want to even consider what I am writing, is what I say plausible? I will provide you with this reminder that you need not agree because this is just my perspective. There is no need to respond unless you are motivated to at the ballot box. Then respond there because this is the purpose of this article.

First the term "average" implies that we are somehow characteristic of a group or class of people or things who?s performance was no better than mid way and most certainly lacking any extraordinary or exceptional characteristics or abilities. I don't know about you but it seems to me that that I as an average American might be considered an under achiever who really did not do well in life and I am not so significant as to what needs to be done in this world. So when we hear the term "average" we must relate to how this might be applied. Oh you thought average applied to values, beliefs, and ideals, a way of life? Well it is time to wake up! In my opinion when we ask that question of our politicians - why don't they, or why did they do that, you must ask yourself could it be that "Father Knows Best"? That aside and now those we know where we stand in the scheme of things let us proceed.

My county is in the middle of a property tax debate. Taxes, like everywhere else have skyrocketed and people are having a hard time paying these major increases. Even small business owners are scared they will not be able to compete and stay open. At minimum they may have to lay off staff to survive. But have no fear the large retailers got huge tax breaks and incentives to keep their low paying stores operational, After all, in my opinion where would we "average Americans" be without those great jobs? Here in my county nowhere. These are the big time jobs around here. Do you think anyone really cares? You would not know it by the lack of interest demonstrated.

All that aside we all know the insurance mess in Florida but rhetorically one needs to ask who really gives a damn? Do you really believe government, the banks, and the realtors? Well they only react when it hits them in their pocketbook! So a few average seniors move and some "average Americans". What does that mean to the state? Nothing, we always have those illegal workers to count on. As for our commissioners, they elected to give a break to the homeowners of $39.00 plus change to "help" them through these trying times. Perhaps they can give that to the tax office that has a heart of gold if you don't pay. After all it's the law you know and we are a country of laws for average Americans! Maybe they will waive their paychecks to help out? Common now, stop laughing. I have to say there is an outcry here but is it significant enough to change anything?

You just might think many people would be up in arms and writing and attending meetings. Well that couldn't have been further from the truth. Quite frankly the apathy and the resolve in many people is that it is hopeless to vote, write or make any statement. Like I wrote in "How Did We Get Here", the ticket in many an opinion has been purchased and we, who used to be average Americans, are along for the ride.

We could jump right to the issue of illegal immigration. You know that hot potato that is on the back burner in Congress until after the election. We don't want us "average Americans" getting upset now do we? Our politicians need time with the media to sow some new concerns in our minds. You don't see people up in arms and the masses banging on the door do you?

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What about the war on terror? Well we already know it is going to be a long war that we "average Americans" will bear the brunt carrying the war in service and economically. Oh you say that's unpatriotic. Well I say why when it is a fact you need to realize. Let me ask you this question. How come our supposed ally can make a deal with the Taliban in Pakistan that creates opportunities for them to cross over into Afghanistan and kill our average young Americans and run back across the border and hide? Do you think that is a-ok? Well that is what I am talking about. If your not on our side you are against us so lets cut out the you know what and get down to winning. However, will many average Americans actually do something? You bet your last dollar they won't. They will go with the same group holding office now or not even vote. They are after all "average Americans" and very involved in the emotions and not too many are interested in how the war is conducted or other issues.

Do you think our borders are secure? Do you think that foreigners owning America ports is good for the U.S.A.? Do you think that NAFTA is a great idea? Now once again, not to be rude, quite frankly does it even matter to you? Are you frightened America will see another major terror attack? Yes, you can rant, rave, talk, and complain all you want but the bottom line is in my opinion you won't do much about it and those in power know it because you are an "average American".

Once again and strictly my opinion that is because many don't know who to vote for. They really see all they consider as being the same. Well in my humble opinion they are in many ways. There are differences in timelines and methods but the agenda is identical. As for the other reason average Americans don't vote is they don't know what these candidates really stand for or they just see them all as worthless. They don't know what their record is concerning issues important to us average Americans and one wonders if they even realize what those issues are? They are so aggravated by the system they just are totally turned off. That is why we are why I believe the politicians call "average Americans".

What are we average Americans really interested in? What are we going to eat for dinner is a hot topic? Do you think the Buccaneers will win this weekend? How do you want me to pay the electric bill? The cars need gas, how much should I put in? My pay will be short this week I was sick one day. Do you want me to pay for the yearbook and how? That hospital bill came in how do we pay it? That bill collector has been calling all day long. I'm afraid the boss is going to have a lay off because he has been making comments lately. What will we do if you get laid off? What should our child wear to school?

This is really what is on the minds of "average Americans". Yes, keep them in flux and busy and they won't have time to worry about the bigger picture. Well unfortunately, the word of this century, politicians and the powerful are right on track. Oh sure they need your vote but it really gets down to calling in "like American Idol". I like so and so, he has a nice smile? I won't vote for her she seems to be nasty! These are the issues in my opinion that drive most "average Americans". As for the elderly, they are still dreaming about the Great War. They are the last true economically "average Americans"! They got their pensions, Social Security, health care and the Gold Watch. Do you see that for you Mr. and Mrs. average American?

Frankly, if you look at the term average from strictly an economic perspective you are the new elite poor. You are no longer an "average American in that politicians and the elite perspective but only in your capability. You are now the new make too much to be listed as poor but not enough to be middle Americans! You always were and always will be the masses of people who don't have it in them to be someone to those who have it all. Now don't take offense to this, I include myself in this analysis.

So the title says what hurts my heart deeply but what I perceive and is my opinion the truth for many. Regretfully, the other word of this century, I would truly want to be wrong but realize by what I see and perceive this is just a wild dream. Yet, those who read and contemplate and consider and take action know what I am about is sadly true. So I will end as I opened "Oh Say Can't You See"? Well I apologize for being so direct but the facts are one dos not see it in everyday life. You do not see the outcry on T.V or in the papers because they will never show it unless it is news. That the fact are most see, hear and know what is going on but have little to no time or interest in doing something about changing it.

So, "Oh say Can't You see" why your vote for change on Election Day will be message sent that those in power couldn't ignore. Get out and vote and make a difference for every Average American!

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Robert T. Melaccio Sr. [send him email] is a freelance writer.

Copyright © 2006 Robert Melaccio