That's an insult to real bums, who at least live off the voluntary offerings of other people. Half of America, on the otherhand, uses the power of government to pass laws to take what other people earn, and deny they're even doing it, and pat themselves on the back in the process.
I'll take a good honest bum anyday.
With due respect, what is the difference between a welfare queen and a bum who decides he/she would rather not join in a productive society and wants free food and a free roof and free television and free whatever? To me their is no difference, other than the very few who slip between the cracks.
If you read back on this thread, I mentioned I left a bad situation at 16 (1966), lived in cars and garages, and worked my ass off in poor-paying widget factories and slowly pulled myself out.
You can "romanticize" the idea of boxcar hobos (bums) or poor down-trodden street trash, but I know better of those types. With few exceptions, they do NOT want to work nor be part of the societal compact. They prefer to be "free" on the streets with no obligations. Their idea of "free" is taking from others through "voluntary offerings" and not giving anything in return.
Have you ever closely watched a Christmas news blurb about all the kitchens feeding the poor? Have you ever noticed how many in line look healthy and capable to have a job even in a good economy? I have for decades, because I knew what to look for.
You really don't get that there is segment of our population who PREFER not to work. F**k the bums and the welfare queens. They want to live their lifestyle, I say let them but without my hard-earned money. If they die, too friggin bad for them. It was their decision. End rant.