[stevepaa]

Rick,
I need to carify. I believe we are the sum of probabilities. We have physical, mental, personality, etc. traits that span the spectrum. On each trait we fall somewhere on the curve and in summation we do the best we can with what we have to start with. Some have attributes that make success rather easy. Corporations look for those traits in young hires and then funnel them into special management programs that quickly reward them financially. Some have traits that don’t work in corporate America but they blossom in their own environment. Your example of Paul is good. But as you also note some have disadvantages which require extra work to overcome.

“Are certain people born with advantages? Absolutely. No doubt. Is it harder for people who come from tough situations to make it? Yes. Without a doubt. Is that an EXCUSE for never doing anything with your life? HELL NO.”

I don’t think it is an excuse either. Everyone should do the best they can. I am saying that we should not be surprised that some cannot make it and I would attribute that to a innate trait, genetics. I know some are born with a number of innate traits on the far side of the curve that will preclude them from being successful, whether financially, emotionally, or in relationships. Some of these traits from both sides of the curves can be seen in direct parents and some seemingly come out of nowhere.

“I don't think that people who don't succeed in America are genetically inferior to those that do. That is just another in the long line of excuses that make up the "victim generation". I can't get ahead because I'm poor, I can't get ahead because I'm black, I can't get ahead because I'm gay, I can't get ahead because the gubmint won't give me my welfare, I can't get ahead because my daddy left me when I was young, I can't get ahead because I'm short, or tall, or fat, or thin, or whatever. It's all a bunch of crap.”

No one should use their current state to define their future. I agree that leads to the “poor me” attitude. But we should not simply look upon those in need as if they could have changed their state by hard work. And it is the view with which you look at that person that I think is important. Again “There but by the grace of God, go I” versus “Well, he didn’t plan very well, did he?” Sometimes, no amount of hand up will work.