My guess is that almost no one enjoys paying taxes. I don’t! We’d prefer to use our money on something we choose for ourselves. I’m also sure there are areas where government budgets could be trimmed, though you and I might disagree on those areas.
That said, I sometimes reflect on what our taxes get us, and I feel grateful. Really!
Let’s set aside things like roads, public safety, and the safety net that taxes provide — all of which are good. I have two very specific tax benefits in mind: parks and libraries.
It was at a state park this spring when I knew that sooner or later I’d write this post. As I sat in a spot overlooking much of the park, it occurred to me that I was, in a sense, part-owner of that land… and so are all of the other residents of my state. It’s truly amazing that, through taxes, land is set aside for the public. From green spaces in busy cities to our stunning national parks, we have a lot of natural beauty to enjoy.
And then there are libraries. I own a ridiculous number of books, but I’m glad that I don’t have to buy every book I want to read or use as a reference. And through our local library, I have access not only to books but also to music, movies, and the Internet. I’m grateful to live someplace where information and entertainment are available to people of all levels of income.
I can’t claim that I’m saintly enough that I won’t feel a little let down if I have to write a check to the IRS in April, rather than getting money back. (Really, that attitude is illogical, since getting money back just means we gave the government a free loan when we overestimated how much to have taken from our paychecks.) But I am glad for the benefits we receive for our tax dollars; I think our lives would be poorer were we to lose our libraries and parks.
So this week, I encourage you to reflect on the benefits of paying taxes. Then check out a library book, take it to a park, and enjoy the fruits of your tax dollars!