Indivduals not waiting on Government!

In the Depression Letters we opinions of various American citizens during the 1930s and their concerns and views on the situation. In a class assignment we related these letters to the current economic recession and made parallels between the complaints and worries of American citizens. In many of the letters their was a prevalent blame on the national governmental authority for not taking control of the economic collapse. Many believed that the solution was in the hands of the national government to put the country back on the right track.

Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy

In complete contrast a recent NBC story on the current economic recession entitled "Cities Go Local for Recession Solutions" focuses on individuals and specific communities that are not putting the responsibility on the government. The story highlights various individuals who were making a difference in their communities. One example was Teresa a "real estate developer, landlord from Sarasota, Florida who is currently offering discounted and even free rent to businesses that will provide local jobs in an economy that has been extremely hard-hit by foreclosure and job loss". Proactive moves such as these have brought a hopeful feeling to these communities who are not waiting around for money from the government. In our reading from class, a "Culture of Affluence," the phenomenon was explored of how in times of dire need the true colors of a community are uncovered. These colors are currently in vibrant display in communities where examples of acts of kindness of taking over the news. Those who drive off in a new Toyota or Harley in Lancaster, California are getting their registration fees back in the form of coupons to be spent in local restaurants and shop. In other communities, local governments have bought and renovated foreclosed houses and put them back on the market. Phrases such as "we are not going to wait on the federal government" suggest that this recession will be more hopeful than the depression. One guy says "losing my job was the best thing in my life" as the local mayor has organized classes on entrepreneurship and individual business endeavors.  These motives show a brighter side to the recession and the power of proactive actions over passive blame and speculation. It's time for all of America to take responsibility.