An email from Grand Dad

Background
John (Grand Dad) is 63 years old and owns his own business. He is a life-long Republican and dreamed of retiring next year. This dream is now impossible because of the current economy. With the stock market crash and all of the imminent tax hikes, John now knows he will be working for many years to come.

John has a Granddaughter, Ashley, who is a recent college grad. She drives a late model car, wears all the latest fashions, and enjoys “going out” and eating in restaurants. Ashley campaigned hard for Obama, and after he won the election she made sure her Grandfather (and all other Republican family members) understood that the world is now going to be a much better place.

Ashley recently found herself short on cash-again, and she cannot pay her bills. As she has done many other times in the past, she e-mailed her Grandfather and asked for some financial help.

Here is his reply

Sweetheart,

I am replying to your request for more money. Ashley, you know I love you dearly and am sympathetic to your financial plight. Unfortunately, times have changed and I am unable to help you. With the election of President Obama, your Grandmother and I have had to set forth a bold new economic plan for our lives.

Let me explain.

As you know, your grandmother and I have worked hard at growing our small business for many years. We have lived a “comfortable” life, but have forgone many “extras” like fancy vacations and luxury cars. We were looking forward to retiring soon, but this is no longer a possibility. Our new President is significantly raising personal and business tax rates. He says it is so he can give our hard earned money to other people. But for us, it means that we must cut back on many business and personal expenses.

We were forced to let our receptionist go today. You remember her. She always gave you candy when you visited my office. Did you know she worked for us for the past 18 years? I can’t afford her anymore.

Obama’s tax plans also affect our ability to help you. Over the years your grandmother and I have given you thousands of dollars in cash, tuition assistance, food, housing, clothing, gifts, and so forth. But with the current economy and President Obama’s new liberal policies, we no longer have disposable income to give to you. Remember how you told me, “Only the richest of the rich will be affected”? Guess what, honey. Because of our business, your Grandmother and I are now considered to be wealthy. On paper, it might look that way. But the reality is, we are far from it. As you said while campaigning for Obama, some people will have to carry more of the burden so all of America can prosper. Since we are unable to help you, I suggest that you give the White House a call at 202-456-1111 and see if Mr. Obama can send you a check.
Remember, we love you dearly.

Good luck, sweetheart.
Love,
Grampa.

PS: How was your recent trip to Jamaica? I have never been there but I hear it is lovely this time of year