Marxism-Capitalism
"Effectively, young people cannot afford homes and older generations refuse to move out of them."
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15281927/california-thousand-oaks-homebuyers-population.html
Oh, my! How can we rid ourselves of the "older generations" who have worked all of their lives to own a home? Can we just force them into RV parks so that young people can take up residence? This may not be flank of Marxism - but it is something much worse. Marxism-Capitalism. I think the term is adequate. Because if you are told where you must live, and damn it, how long you can live in a space before predatory commercial interests drone in to bomb your dreams - it is the worst form of governance.
The sentence from the link caught my attention because of the battle fought by homeowners on a couple of streets in my city where the lots are a generous one acre, or a bit more. Home builders had descended on our city council and were exerting pressure for the necessary zoning changes so that multi-family residences could (eventually) change the face of the neighborhood. These family homes which were built in the late 1950's and early 1960's had hosted robust families, large vegetable gardens, and yes, block parties. The children were now in college, or in the workforce, but the homes provided for joyful family gatherings when adult children and grandchildren flocked home for the holidays. Peaceful. Just peaceful slices of the pie of life - and guess what? The "older generations" were also still in the workforce.
Our friends begged everyone they knew to please attend the city council meeting where this issue would be discussed. The auditorium was packed that evening and the resolute spirit of the homeowners on full display.
The predators - not to be deterred - provided a side show for the residents. Our neighbors listened as the animated presenter introduced them to a model of what was eventually envisioned for their one acre lot. A generous helping of whipped cream would now accompany their slice of pie. A dozen townhomes would replace the generational home. Isn't this a grand idea? The charlatan was charming until our friends firmly stated they had no intention of selling their home. His demeanor changed and he turned on them in vicious manner. It was selfish of them (yes, that is the word he used) to not sell their home and offer young families an opportunity.
The first turn of the screw is when our elected representatives turn against the taxpaying base. The Pear of Anguish is then applied when the developer tells you to take a seat. Now while this "pear" may be a mythical device, you are certainly going to feel that pressure in your rectum when they bend you over.
Is it reasonable for "older generations" to consider their home a savings account? We certainly feel that way about our home. This will provide for our children's inheritance. And the Bible has this instruction:
"A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children...." Proverbs 13:22
As a Christian, from young adulthood, my choices in life have always hinged on a simple thought. How will my actions today effect my (future) grandchildren? My thinking has always extended to the third generation.
For many Americans a primary financial transaction involves buying and maintaining a family home so that one day the children... the grandchildren... and possibly even more generations can enjoy the peace that can be found in home ownership.
I also believe the walls of my home contain my laughter and my memories. Perhaps it is my strong Cherokee heritage which causes me to imagine such a thought. But I want the walls of my home to speak to my sons when I am gone.
It is important that each of us be aware of what forces are coming against our communities. This can best be observed in what is on the agenda for a monthly city council meeting. Our elected representatives are the gatekeepers. But sometimes, they are the ones who tear down the gate.
swoffordwrites@gmail.com
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