Tell us How YOU Would Solve our Nation's Problems at PeaceOptions' Dinner Thursday at Lester's Diner

We had an energetic discussion last month on the Occupy Wall Street protests, notably on the perception held by some that corporate greed is behind the lost jobs and other ills that are befalling so many.

Their pain is palpable, and it is fueling a growing anger and outrage that such abuses must stop, and the only way to do it is to force them to act more responsibly toward those whose lives they impact, and the world in which they operate.

Perhaps they are right. Perhaps not.

But maybe that's only the tip of the iceberg, a symptom of a human attribute that puts "me first" at the expense of others that is exhibited not only by the top "1%", but by millions at the bottom and in the middle, too, resulting in a structural instability in our system that needs fixing -- and fast!

It's regularly reported that 50% of Americans pay no income tax, while something like 65% or more received federal benefits of one sort or another. On top of that, last night's news reported that 70% of U.S. tax revenues come from the top 10%.

Setting aside for the moment the issues of corporate profiteering and overt influence of our political system, these statistics point to a troubling fact -- those of means are already bearing the lion's share of the burden, yet many want them to do and pay more!

Superimpose a growing polarity that makes it increasingly hard to rationally discuss issues, much less find common ground to address difficult problems, and it's hard to believe things will get better before growing much worse.

If the change starts with us, then where do we start?

What do you think? Come share your views on this important topic and what you think can be done to right our ship and sail to safer shores?

Our monthly South Florida dinner will be held Thursday, Oct. 27, 7pm at Lester's Diner on Coconut Creek Parkway. There's no charge to attend, but you buy your own meal. Please join us.