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I don't disagree with your recognition that we have budgetary problems. However, I will say it again - if a system cannot work, then that system will, by definition, change. We can't posit an unworkable system and then pretend that there cannot be a change in the system because there will have to be changes if the system is unworkable.

And, changes can be painful. Changes by definition are disruptive. Lower governmental benefits (in real terms) will be painful to those who receive them. Higher taxes (in real terms) will be painful to those who pay them. Any dramatic reduction in the real value of the dollar (relative to other currencies or goods) will be painful for those who invest in the dollar. We may be in for some changes in all of these areas. Clearly, something will have to change.

You ask why these changes haven't yet been implemented? Well, the obvious answer is that they are all painful for somebody. For example, right now, I cannot tell you the name of any current federal elected official who advocates a current reduction in senior benefits. Not one. Most do not advocate increasing anybody's taxes. From what I can see, it's not a question of electing more people from one party or the other. None of them are advocating a solution to these problems.

But, these problems will be solved, even if it's not in our lifetime. The solutions will probably involve some rule changes and some deceptive bookkeeping, but a solution will be found.

I don't disagree with your recognition that we have budgetary problems. However, I will say it again - if a system cannot work, then that system will, by definition, change. We can't posit an unworkable system and then pretend that there cannot be a change in the system because there will have to be changes if the system is unworkable.

You are creating a false strawman. Of course an unworkable system will have to be changed. The questions are what will cause the change, when, and what will be the change? No one is pretending there will be no change. Certainly not me. If there is civil disorder and an economy in shambles, it could lead to more government control and a loss of civil liberties.

It will be painful. We have long gone past the point where it will be pain free. The only issue now is how painful and where most of the pain will reside.

You ask why these changes haven't yet been implemented? Well, the obvious answer is that they are all painful for somebody.

The longer we wait the more painful it will be. It will take leadership and an informed public to do what is necessary. I don't see any of the political leadership willing to make the necessary changes. There are some very difficult choices including a decrease in US global power and influence. Other great powers have experienced such choices as they decline.

From what I can see, it's not a question of electing more people from one party or the other. None of them are advocating a solution to these problems.

We have had many attempts, the latest being from the Simpson-Bowles commission. They always come a cropper when special interests are affected.

But, these problems will be solved, even if it's not in our lifetime. The solutions will probably involve some rule changes and some deceptive bookkeeping, but a solution will be found.

LOL. This is the attitude that has gotten us to this point. It is like waiting to treat a disease until the patient is terminal. I am very concerned about a "final solution" to these problems. We don't have the luxury of time.