Sacrifice for Thee, But Not for Me – Again

Yesterday, Obama solemnly told the people involved in the GM bankruptcy that they would have to sacrifice the good life for the sake of their children and grandchildren, even though it was not a sacrifice of their choosing. He compassionately sounded all the right notes while he basically admitted that things would not get better in their lifetimes.

It provided a big contrast to his Saturday night date in NYC. No one in Washington is willing to admit to the costs of the jets, helicopters, limousine transportation, etc., but a British paper estimated that over $1,000,000,000 was spent so he and Michelle could have dinner, take in a Broadway play, and go to a club afterward.

That’s a fairly expensive date for someone whose annual salary is $400,000 with a $50,000 expense account, $19,000 entertainment account, and a $100,000 travel allowance.

I have never minded anyone else’s extravagance or lifestyle, no matter how much better it is than mine. That should merely serve as inspiration, if any notice is given at all. But I do have trouble when a leader repeatedly tells the people that they must sacrifice, while he lives in extravagance that would make Nero envious. And when he takes money out of my pocket to support his whims, I get really upset.