What’s the opposite of “tax”

In response to last week’s imponderable question, “What’s the opposite of “tax”?, my temple friend Richard explained, "The opposite of “tax” is when Congress is in recess.  This, of course, brings to mind the old question:  If 'pro' is the opposite of 'con,' what is the opposite of “progress”?"

My business development friend Ray observed, "More disposable income," to which my dad's beach buddy Bob provided an example when he wrote, "A new car."

My sailing friend Mike concluded, "The opposite of tax is of course spend," while my social media friend Mark lamented, "I think it is nothing.”

My sailing friend Norm shared his financial advisor experience, "Tax Free is the opposite of Tax. It is amazing how much "tax" ordinary folks actually pay these days. When you add up income tax, social security and medicare payroll tax, capital gains tax, ad valorem taxes, sales taxes, the average middle income person is paying close to 50% or more of their cash flow in taxes of one sort or another. Our politicians always want more and always claim they need more.  Then when you retire, most pay tax on some or most of their social security that has already been taxed !!  Funny thing about taxing, though, whenever the government takes too much, the economy stalls and government revenue falls at higher tax rates."

Please send me your thoughts about this week's "things that make you go 'Hmmm' ":

     How do you know if a word is misspelled in the dictionary or dictionary.com?
        from my friend Bob J

Love truly, Laugh uncontrollably, and never regret anything that made you smile!

Hal

It's matzah and chocolate weekend.  OK, being more spiritual, wishing you a Happy Passover and Happy Easter.  May your holiday provide you with insight, wisdom, calmness.....and not too many calories.

Thanks to Demetri Martin, Steven Wright and George Carlin for the inspiration for Hmmm.   I invite you to call or email me to catch up.