And I don't really have much of a problem with that.
But I simply don't recall seeing much static directed at the so-called "working poor" -- aside from those who argue that the minimum wage should be a "living wage".
I've never seen much supporting of a "living wage" around here, but I have seen much attacks against the "working poor." Even FReepers who admit using government assistance temporarily have been brutally attacked as leeches.
Relative to the posted article, as I've often remarked, my sis is a social worker. Many of her clients could've written the same article. Except that, usually, their decisions have been far worse.
Bored? Out of money? Get pregnant.
Bored? Out of money? Do some drugs.
No money to get drugs? Steal some from your employer.
Have a court date? Which might have some unpleasant consequences? Don't show up.
New baby an anchor? Want to go partying? Can't afford a sitter? Leave the baby in the trailer and go partying anyway. Or put him in the car...and leave him there.
Et cetera, et cetera
Thing is, it's very easy to understand why these people are poor. They have made bad decisions. And worse, they've been largely insulated from the consequences of these bad decisions. Like my sister, most social workers will tell you that it's not the subject's fault that they're poor -- they've just been "unlucky" somehow.
Social workers and the entire welfare apparatus have somehow become enablers. And if you never experience the consequences of bad decisions, you'll never learn to avoid them.