Sunday, August 22, 2010
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
A Weaponless Threat
I knew the day would come when my coverage under my mother's health insurance would lapse. I could foresee it and I feared it. Today was the first day it happened and I actually realized it.
At some point Americans lost sight of what really matters, our people. There are four concepts I will cover to demonstrate this to you: (1) The American Tax Payer's Investment in its People, (2) Freedom from Fear, (3) Caring Pocketbooks for People, and (4) The Community Concept.
My intention is to give you a first hand account of what it is like to walk in the shoes of an uninsured, hardworking, taxes-paying, American citizen. I know a lot of people may disagree with me, so if this upsets you, stop reading.
The American Tax Payer's Investment in its People
I am an American citizen. I was born in the United States of America. I pay taxes. I went to public schools funded by American tax payer money. I went to a State University also funded by tax payer money. I am studying the laws of the United States of America, also in part funded by tax payer money in the form of subsidized government loans. Tax payer money has provided me with an excellent education.
However, tax payer money has failed to protect its greatest investment: me. I ask the tax payer: Why invest so much in me and then fail to protect me from disease, accidents and ailments beyond my control? Do most people invest the money in a home and then stop paying home owner's insurance? I doubt your financial adviser would recommend such foolishness. Why do we do it to our young people?
Did you know the majority of uninsured Americans range in age from 18-24 years old? In 2008, there were 8 million young adults between the ages of 18-24 uninsured. This number represents 28.1% of the population. Young adults make up the largest age segment of the uninsured, are the most likely to be uninsured, and are one of the fastest growing segments of the uninsured population.
Think about it this way readers, you bought a new home, invested a lot of money in fixing it up, bought home owner's insurance and the day after, your home floods. You opted out of the flood insurance on your policy. Bet you feel cheated.
That's how Americans should feel when they learn their young adults are uninsured. Americans have invested all the money in educating young adults, but then they opt out of one of the most important aspects of protecting their investment: Healthcare.
Freedom from Fear
We live in a great nation full of freedoms and made up of rights. I can write this blog post criticizing my government. I can vote for representatives, senate members and a president who I believe will represent my voice. I can make signs, I can protest, I can march on Washington D.C. I can lobby Congress. I can write my nations leaders. I will not face a retribution for voicing the ideals I am about to share with you, which is a freedom many do not have.
However, freedom fighters, I ask you: what good is freedom without one's health?
I walked across the street today and I was afraid that a car would hit me. I was afraid I would be in the hospital and I would be handed a $100,000 + bill at the end of it that I wouldn't be able to pay. I fear getting sick during the school year and not being able to see a doctor. I fear not being able to pay for my prescriptions that have already expired that I cannot afford without insurance.
Caring Pocketbooks for People
You wouldn't be reading this if you weren't someone I loved or cared about. Now, listen: I cannot afford to pay for my prescriptions and if I do not have my prescriptions, the likelihood my life expectancy will be shortened because I am not taking my prescriptions is high. Does that sink in for you? I will die sooner than I should if I don't have my prescriptions. Now are you understanding? I bet you want to hand over your checkbook and help me out now, don't you? I bet you do, because you are someone who cares about me and who loves me.
Why doesn't this same concept translate to our government?
If the my country cares for me, why isn't it having the same reaction to my lack of health care in my time of need? Why isn't it outraged that I am going without necessary prescriptions? In every other industrialized nation, their people do not have my worries because their country provides with its checkbook. They live with peace of mind that their country has provided for them in ways my country has failed to.
We are a strong people, fill with strong values. Capitalism is one of the founding concepts of this country. It's understood that money has power in this nation. However, this country is not founded solely on capitalism. We are a great nation that grew out of a Bill of Rights, a complex system of Checks and Balances and an idea that we are a government of the people, for the people. Right?
So, let me ask you this: What happened to the "for the people" part? I am worried for my country and it's people. I think we have lost sight of what really matters. Namely, our people.
The Community Concept
My grandma always used to tell me that times were different when she was young, communities came together for people when bad luck fell upon them. Our society is much more global and connected today. Now our communities are connected across borders and continents. Instead of thinking so locally, we should be thinking nationally and globally.
So, national community, I am telling you: I am a citizen, I pay my taxes, I have a job, I am a full time law student and I feel like the U.S. tax payer has invested a lot of money in me, but hasn't protected me from a threat that we cannot wage war on and that carries no weapons. Who will hear my voice now?
At some point Americans lost sight of what really matters, our people. There are four concepts I will cover to demonstrate this to you: (1) The American Tax Payer's Investment in its People, (2) Freedom from Fear, (3) Caring Pocketbooks for People, and (4) The Community Concept.
My intention is to give you a first hand account of what it is like to walk in the shoes of an uninsured, hardworking, taxes-paying, American citizen. I know a lot of people may disagree with me, so if this upsets you, stop reading.
The American Tax Payer's Investment in its People
I am an American citizen. I was born in the United States of America. I pay taxes. I went to public schools funded by American tax payer money. I went to a State University also funded by tax payer money. I am studying the laws of the United States of America, also in part funded by tax payer money in the form of subsidized government loans. Tax payer money has provided me with an excellent education.
However, tax payer money has failed to protect its greatest investment: me. I ask the tax payer: Why invest so much in me and then fail to protect me from disease, accidents and ailments beyond my control? Do most people invest the money in a home and then stop paying home owner's insurance? I doubt your financial adviser would recommend such foolishness. Why do we do it to our young people?
Did you know the majority of uninsured Americans range in age from 18-24 years old? In 2008, there were 8 million young adults between the ages of 18-24 uninsured. This number represents 28.1% of the population. Young adults make up the largest age segment of the uninsured, are the most likely to be uninsured, and are one of the fastest growing segments of the uninsured population.
Think about it this way readers, you bought a new home, invested a lot of money in fixing it up, bought home owner's insurance and the day after, your home floods. You opted out of the flood insurance on your policy. Bet you feel cheated.
That's how Americans should feel when they learn their young adults are uninsured. Americans have invested all the money in educating young adults, but then they opt out of one of the most important aspects of protecting their investment: Healthcare.
Freedom from Fear
We live in a great nation full of freedoms and made up of rights. I can write this blog post criticizing my government. I can vote for representatives, senate members and a president who I believe will represent my voice. I can make signs, I can protest, I can march on Washington D.C. I can lobby Congress. I can write my nations leaders. I will not face a retribution for voicing the ideals I am about to share with you, which is a freedom many do not have.
However, freedom fighters, I ask you: what good is freedom without one's health?
I walked across the street today and I was afraid that a car would hit me. I was afraid I would be in the hospital and I would be handed a $100,000 + bill at the end of it that I wouldn't be able to pay. I fear getting sick during the school year and not being able to see a doctor. I fear not being able to pay for my prescriptions that have already expired that I cannot afford without insurance.
Caring Pocketbooks for People
You wouldn't be reading this if you weren't someone I loved or cared about. Now, listen: I cannot afford to pay for my prescriptions and if I do not have my prescriptions, the likelihood my life expectancy will be shortened because I am not taking my prescriptions is high. Does that sink in for you? I will die sooner than I should if I don't have my prescriptions. Now are you understanding? I bet you want to hand over your checkbook and help me out now, don't you? I bet you do, because you are someone who cares about me and who loves me.
Why doesn't this same concept translate to our government?
If the my country cares for me, why isn't it having the same reaction to my lack of health care in my time of need? Why isn't it outraged that I am going without necessary prescriptions? In every other industrialized nation, their people do not have my worries because their country provides with its checkbook. They live with peace of mind that their country has provided for them in ways my country has failed to.
We are a strong people, fill with strong values. Capitalism is one of the founding concepts of this country. It's understood that money has power in this nation. However, this country is not founded solely on capitalism. We are a great nation that grew out of a Bill of Rights, a complex system of Checks and Balances and an idea that we are a government of the people, for the people. Right?
So, let me ask you this: What happened to the "for the people" part? I am worried for my country and it's people. I think we have lost sight of what really matters. Namely, our people.
The Community Concept
My grandma always used to tell me that times were different when she was young, communities came together for people when bad luck fell upon them. Our society is much more global and connected today. Now our communities are connected across borders and continents. Instead of thinking so locally, we should be thinking nationally and globally.
So, national community, I am telling you: I am a citizen, I pay my taxes, I have a job, I am a full time law student and I feel like the U.S. tax payer has invested a lot of money in me, but hasn't protected me from a threat that we cannot wage war on and that carries no weapons. Who will hear my voice now?
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
A New Bank for a New Outlook!?
I set myself up with a new Bank of America checking account complete with my photo on the debit card to prevent further fraudulent purchases by thieves who like to snatch wallets out of purses. We shall see if the photo on my debit card actually prevents fraud or is just a clever marketing tool...
On a lighter note, all the money that was withdrawn from my account from my denied claim has now been replaced. Five phone calls later. Two bank managers. Two supervisors. A few tears. And finally, SUCCESS!
Who knew you had to have a few years of law school under your belt before the world would take you seriously. I have to admit, the two years of law school I have completed did help me sound more articulate as I was sobbing into the phone like a baby begging for Chase Bank's Claims Department to believe me when I stated over and over again, "I swear, I ate at Epic Burger and THEN my wallet was stolen! Look at the pending transactions from 7/28/10!"
Yeah, in fact, that was my all time low. Kicked when I was already down by the one entity I am suppose to trust my entire life savings to? My loans to? My HOME mortgage to? I don't think so. Trust is a mutual thing in my book.
Oh, well. I am putting all that drama behind me and focusing on what matters: the fall semester of law school starting in t-minus 5 days!
I already have three of my books, all of which won't help me because my reading assignments (of course) are over the material I have yet to receive in the mail. Patience truly is a virtue.
However, I finally was able to get issued a new law student ID - complete with my new class title: LLM Student in Information Technology! Wooo! I'm official!
It's kind of sad, I don't even know what LLM stands for...I'm sure it's Latin or something. I know, I sound pretty dang smart right now. This is what happens when I have been through the emotional washing machine and I'm trying to find the silver lining. I apologize ahead of time for my rambling. Goodnight.
On a lighter note, all the money that was withdrawn from my account from my denied claim has now been replaced. Five phone calls later. Two bank managers. Two supervisors. A few tears. And finally, SUCCESS!
Who knew you had to have a few years of law school under your belt before the world would take you seriously. I have to admit, the two years of law school I have completed did help me sound more articulate as I was sobbing into the phone like a baby begging for Chase Bank's Claims Department to believe me when I stated over and over again, "I swear, I ate at Epic Burger and THEN my wallet was stolen! Look at the pending transactions from 7/28/10!"
Oh, well. I am putting all that drama behind me and focusing on what matters: the fall semester of law school starting in t-minus 5 days!
I already have three of my books, all of which won't help me because my reading assignments (of course) are over the material I have yet to receive in the mail. Patience truly is a virtue.
However, I finally was able to get issued a new law student ID - complete with my new class title: LLM Student in Information Technology! Wooo! I'm official!
It's kind of sad, I don't even know what LLM stands for...I'm sure it's Latin or something. I know, I sound pretty dang smart right now. This is what happens when I have been through the emotional washing machine and I'm trying to find the silver lining. I apologize ahead of time for my rambling. Goodnight.
Monday, August 16, 2010
A Horrible Experience with Chase Bank
Remember how I said my wallet was stolen? Remember how I said Chase was giving me the $600.00 back...well they did, and then they took it all away. Apparently, the transaction for my hamburger at the restaurant where my wallet was stolen posted to my account the day after the transaction for the ridiculous Macy's purchase, which I'll remind you some thief made! Thus, Chase thinks I went on a shopping spree and I am trying to hang them out to dry.
As a result, Chase withdrew $636.18 from my bank account today plus the insufficient funds fees that had posted to my account from the July 28th transaction. So, right now I feel like it's me against the world.
Needless to say, I was less than happy today when I spoke with the Chase Bank Claims Department and was told that I needed to provide proof that my wallet was actually stolen. The lawyer in my suddenly rose from my fury and I said very catty, "Do you want signed affidavits? Because I work for a lawyer and I can get you those."
The Chase representative explained, "No, no. I just need documentation." I said, "Oh, like my application for a new license? My receipts for new wallets? My claims I filed with the Chicago Transport Authority regarding my stolen wallet? The temporary Texas State Driver's License I was issued three days after my wallet was stolen? A representative from Wells Fargo who will also attest that one the same day (July 28, 2010) approximately five minutes after reporting my debit card stolen to Chase Bank, I also reported it stolen to Wells Fargo?"
The Chase representative could sense my frustration and he sighed and said, "Yes, ma'am."
I wanted to scream. I called Wells Fargo Bank, who I might add is looking like Mother Theresa compared to Chase Bank right now, who stated that they could provide me with a three-way dialogue whereby a Chase Bank representative would stay on the line while I telephoned a Wells Fargo representative who could attest that my debit cards was canceled on July 28, 2010, reported as stolen and a new cards were issued on the same date.
I might add, when I found out my wallet was stolen I was devastated and I called Chase Bank crying. I spoke on the phone with them and I felt comforted because the person on the other line assured me I would get my $636.18 back. Talking on the phone to the Chase Bank representative who explained to me that the bank was denying my claim because the account activity on my card looked suspicious, made me want to cry all over again. Instead of feeling reassured I felt like they had branded the scarlet letter on my forehead and I felt like Chase was accusing me of stealing.
As a law student and a future lawyer, my job is to provide my client's with justice. Sometimes justice means the client never goes to Court. In a lot of instances, the client just wants to be heard and acknowledged.
I just want Chase Bank to acknowledge they are wrong. I will fax them an entire book with proof that my wallet is stolen to prove my innocence. Because at the end of the day, we're innocent until proven guilty in this country, UNLESS you bank with Chase Bank.
Not to sound too much like a quote from the Salem Witch Trials, but...
I will go down in flames before I let anyone tarnish my reputation and scorn my good name.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
The Air and Water Show Weekend!
I'm going to explain briefly what is taking place in the photos I posted earlier today.
Unfortunately, my MacBook is in need of a visit to the Genius Bar so I will have to explain the details of today via my new phone.
My friend, Laura, works in advertising and her company buys space on ABC7 here in Chicago. As a result, ABC7 provided her with two VIP tickets to the Air and Water show complete with lunch, beverages and special VIP seats of all the action.
I wish I could say I deserved such royal treatment but honestly, I'm just a lowly law student...the idea of being treated like a VIP for nothing sold me!
Anyway, the point is the Air and Water show was spectacular from the VIP area! Unlimited shade, bottled water, food, ice cream, views, etc.
As you can see, I got some awesome shots with my new phone and even got some awesome video. The Blue Angels are probably the most well known and impressive of all the airplanes! They are fast flying fighter jets that fly within feet of each other at ridiculous speeds. I only was able to get one shot of them that was decent, they were too fast for me!
Anyway, I just wanted to explain the photos. Have a great day!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Unfortunately, my MacBook is in need of a visit to the Genius Bar so I will have to explain the details of today via my new phone.
My friend, Laura, works in advertising and her company buys space on ABC7 here in Chicago. As a result, ABC7 provided her with two VIP tickets to the Air and Water show complete with lunch, beverages and special VIP seats of all the action.
I wish I could say I deserved such royal treatment but honestly, I'm just a lowly law student...the idea of being treated like a VIP for nothing sold me!
Anyway, the point is the Air and Water show was spectacular from the VIP area! Unlimited shade, bottled water, food, ice cream, views, etc.
As you can see, I got some awesome shots with my new phone and even got some awesome video. The Blue Angels are probably the most well known and impressive of all the airplanes! They are fast flying fighter jets that fly within feet of each other at ridiculous speeds. I only was able to get one shot of them that was decent, they were too fast for me!
Anyway, I just wanted to explain the photos. Have a great day!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Saturday, August 14, 2010
New iPhone 4!
I finally was able to get my hands on the new iPhone 4, which makes blogging on the go and documenting my experiences in this amazing city that much more easy!
Yesterday I had the privilege of heading to the Air and Water Show from the comfort of my friend's boss's 27th floor apartment in Lincoln Park! It was amazing! We had a view to die for in a beautiful apartment filled with "adults". I was on my best behavior but felt a little out of place since everyone was married with a toddler at the party. :)
However, the view was amazing and I was so mad I couldn't find my battery charger for my camera yesterday. So, when I called the Apple Store and was told they'd just received a shipment of the coveted iPhone 4, I ran to the store!
I tried to upload some photos to compare the 3G camera and my new iPhone 4 camera, but blogger for the iPhone is not cooperating and my MacBook is currently experiencing some technical difficulties... (Genius bar appointment Monday.)
Needless to say, this post will have to suffice.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Yesterday I had the privilege of heading to the Air and Water Show from the comfort of my friend's boss's 27th floor apartment in Lincoln Park! It was amazing! We had a view to die for in a beautiful apartment filled with "adults". I was on my best behavior but felt a little out of place since everyone was married with a toddler at the party. :)
However, the view was amazing and I was so mad I couldn't find my battery charger for my camera yesterday. So, when I called the Apple Store and was told they'd just received a shipment of the coveted iPhone 4, I ran to the store!
I tried to upload some photos to compare the 3G camera and my new iPhone 4 camera, but blogger for the iPhone is not cooperating and my MacBook is currently experiencing some technical difficulties... (Genius bar appointment Monday.)
Needless to say, this post will have to suffice.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
I feel brand new.
Sometimes it takes moving 1,160 miles away from home before a little girl can finally grow up into a strong woman. When I first journeyed to Chicago, I thought I was pretty damn smart. I thought I was prepared for life and I knew more than my elders. It's ironic how two years can change a person. I think about the twenty-one year old, fresh eyed and naive little girl I was when I arrived in Chicago, and I am in awe that I didn't get mugged the first day. No, that took two years in this concrete jungle. :)
The fact of the matter is, being far away from those I have always relied on has taught me to trust in my own judgment and to rely on others. It's a blessing to be brought up with such a big and supportive family, but it's also makes moving away hard. I have never yearned and missed for anything like I've missed my family these past two years. However, living in Chicago has taught me to trust others and build my own community and circle of friends-family in Chicago. I guess that's a lesson I really needed to learn: family is amazing, but friends can be just as nurturing, loving and giving as my own flesh and blood.
This past week my mom came into town and it was just wonderful. We laughed, talked, organized kitchen drawers I'd been avoiding, shopped, went to shows and just relaxed. It was an extremely healing experience. I was able to just enjoy my life here in Chicago with my mom and really value the little things I love about Chicago - the hustle and bustle, the pace, the liveliness, the culture and the music.
My mom and I went to a performance at the Briar Street Theater by the Blue Man Group one night and it was absolutely amazing and so much fun. I highly recommend the Blue Man Group to everyone. It's such a unique group experience. We also went to the Red Headed Piano Bar and listened to music one night and drank martinis. Later that night we ended up heading to the movie theater and seeing a movie. We shopped at all our favorite discount chains, gave each other facials and manicures and dined like queens.
My cousin, Morgan, also was in Chicago at the time, so she spent a day with us. We went for sushi and shopped with her while taking iconic Chicago photos. We posed in front of famous landmarks and attracted the attention of other tourists - even though I can't be a tourist in my own city! However, Chicago is so huge, sometimes I feel like a tourist in my own city! :)
I guess that's just it. We conquered the city. My city. My home. And in that moment I realized I love this city. I have gone through some rough times in this city, but I have conquered so much and grown as a result of my conquests because of this city. How can I not cherish the city that has taught me so much about myself?
My sometimes unbearable uphill climb in Chicago has taught me to really appreciate and love who I am, where I came from and where I am going. I'm a very different person than I was when I first arrived in Chicago and I am thankful to Chicago for allowing me to use its magnificent cityscape as a nest for me to spread my wings.
Alicia Keys said it best about New York, but I think the same philosophy applies to Chicago: "These streets will makes you feel brand new, big lights will inspire you." Do you feel it? Because I feel brand new and so inspired.
The fact of the matter is, being far away from those I have always relied on has taught me to trust in my own judgment and to rely on others. It's a blessing to be brought up with such a big and supportive family, but it's also makes moving away hard. I have never yearned and missed for anything like I've missed my family these past two years. However, living in Chicago has taught me to trust others and build my own community and circle of friends-family in Chicago. I guess that's a lesson I really needed to learn: family is amazing, but friends can be just as nurturing, loving and giving as my own flesh and blood.
This past week my mom came into town and it was just wonderful. We laughed, talked, organized kitchen drawers I'd been avoiding, shopped, went to shows and just relaxed. It was an extremely healing experience. I was able to just enjoy my life here in Chicago with my mom and really value the little things I love about Chicago - the hustle and bustle, the pace, the liveliness, the culture and the music.
My mom and I went to a performance at the Briar Street Theater by the Blue Man Group one night and it was absolutely amazing and so much fun. I highly recommend the Blue Man Group to everyone. It's such a unique group experience. We also went to the Red Headed Piano Bar and listened to music one night and drank martinis. Later that night we ended up heading to the movie theater and seeing a movie. We shopped at all our favorite discount chains, gave each other facials and manicures and dined like queens.
My mom and me at the Chicago Theater
My mom and me riding the bus to Whole Foods
Morgan and me with the refrigerator art in Chicago,
much like the guitars in Austin
Morgan and me with Tuna Tartare at Oysy
My sometimes unbearable uphill climb in Chicago has taught me to really appreciate and love who I am, where I came from and where I am going. I'm a very different person than I was when I first arrived in Chicago and I am thankful to Chicago for allowing me to use its magnificent cityscape as a nest for me to spread my wings.
Alicia Keys said it best about New York, but I think the same philosophy applies to Chicago: "These streets will makes you feel brand new, big lights will inspire you." Do you feel it? Because I feel brand new and so inspired.
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