Earning it

What does it mean to 'earn it' these days and who is getting it done?  Too often we see, hear or read about people taking handouts or taking advantage of the system, their neighbor or the goodwill of others.  Why are there so many people in our communities and our country who are not earning it?  What happened to our culture of going for it, taking a risk, or exploring the unknown?  When did we shift from winner takes all to anyone that competes receives a trophy? 

I'd like to see more celebrations of those who do earn it.  You know, the high school athlete with limited skills who won't give up, dives for the loose ball, skins his knees and cheers for her mates when not on the field or court.  I'd like to see more politicians  debate a topic with good argument and real facts to persuade others rather than spew vitriol at an opponent to get better press coverage.  I'd like to celebrate the neighbor who performs a good deed without being noticed or taking credit.  I'd love to give a high five to the grade school kids that play in the yard or the park rather than sit inside with the TV, play station or xbox.

Culture is a hard thing to change and can take years or decades to shift and is heavily influenced by what we read, see and hear.  Maybe, just maybe, the right behaviors are out there all around us but we don't notice.  Perhaps we are blinded by the negative story, by the greed and laziness all around.  I for one will do my best to tune out those who aren't earning it and celebrate those that do.  If more people did the same, maybe we will begin to slowly change back to the country that sets the example for others to follow.