Honor!  What does it mean?  Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines it as good name or public esteem or a showing of usually merited respect, but even Merriam-Webster chooses to give numerous definitions until they finally define it, “A keen sense of ethical conduct”.

Recently, Jon Huntsman Sr. was a guest on the Glenn Beck Show.  Jon Huntsman is a self made billionaire and philanthropist who has built his empire on his word and a hand shake. His son, Jon Huntsman Jr. is the former governor of Utah and is presently the US Ambassador to China. One of his most notable causes is his co-founding of the Huntsman Cancer Institute. This man is a living testimonial to trust and honor in business and government. His success and more importantly his generosity is an example for us all to strive for. Today, we are a nation of people that believe and preach honor unless it get’s in the way of our goals or objectives. One may also state that if it’s not illegal it must be okay, but again let’s go back to Merriam-Webster’s definition. “A keen sense of ethical conduct”. Ethically can also be defined as morally correct. We all have that little voice in our heads that generally points us in the right direction. That voice is the Lord reminding us what we need to do what will be pleasing to him. Our children must be taught how to recognize that voice and the importance of being morally correct and honorable.  “The only thing that one can give away and still keep is their word”.

As you enter into this New Year, do so with honor!  No matter how big or how small, do what you say.  You will soon find that when people feel like they can rely on you, they also trust you. Actions always speak louder than words.

Our Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reed recently showed us how actions can speak louder than words. This method is commonly referred to though as “BRIBES”.  Listed below are what it took for Senator Reed to get his 60 votes for heath care reform which was done like thieves in the middle of the night.

Senator Ben Nelson: The Cornhusker Kickback - a deal carved out for a single state, a permanent exemption from the state share of Medicaid expansion for Nebraska, meaning federal taxpayers have to kick in an additional $45 million in the first decade.

Senator Reid's Nevada and 4 other states (all Democratically controlled) get a 5 year exemption from increased Medicaid costs.

Senator Bernie Sanders: $10 billion in new funding for community health centers, Ben Nelson & Carl Levin: exemption for non-profit insurers in their states from a hefty excise tax. Similar insurers in the other 48 states will pay the tax.

Senators Sanders and Patrick Leahy - VT given additional Medicaid funding Bill Nelson - exempted Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties from Medicare Advantage cuts when the program is facing cuts nationwide.

Senator Landrieu - Ms. Louisiana Purchase - $300 million increase for Medicaid in Louisiana,

Senator Menendez in NJ - gets millions for tax credits to medical device companies in his state (to compensate for the fees they will be assessed).

Senator Schumer in NY - gets a higher threshold for taxing his states high value (union) insurance plans.

Senator’s Stabinow in Michigan and Kerry in MA - get millions to subsidize unions insurance.

Senator Chris Dodd (of FNMA/FMAC infamy) - CT get s a new Hospital and Pennsylvania gets a New Medical School.

Folks, is this a great country or what?  Remember, trust and honor are what this country was founded upon.  Let’s help our leaders of this great nation to remember this on November 2, 2010.

May God bless…

Ron Phillips