With government at all levels consuming an ever-larger share of our substance while calling for more, it is a rare occasion when we can pause and count our blessings.

One such event happened recently when 61 percent of our citizens said "no" to an increase in the county's sales tax.

That was after it was endorsed by every public board, official, school system head, community college and the local newspaper. It was even cloaked in that familiar "for the children" mantra. But it wasn't to be.

It wasn't the amount of the tax, and it wasn't what the tax was to be spent for that prompted the "no" vote. It was a long overdue reaction to the way in which public officials and educrats seem determined to pursue a tax-and-spend attitude at all costs.

One educrat said that it was a matter of poor timing. Some said they would just have to find other sources of funding, and one wag wrote the Speak Up column to say that we did not understand the issue and need to have another vote.

Note that not one of these officials suggested that they might eliminate nonproductive and useless programs. There was no discussion or even a hint of their being more effective and efficient stewards of what they are already receiving.

Though money helps, it doesn't automatically equate with quality education. Enough money is already being spent to give every child a quality education – if a quality education is the primary purpose of the system.

The same theory holds true, whether we are talking about the city insisting on being in the electricity distribution business, rebuilding a dilapidated building, or the county providing parks and recreational facilities for its citizens. Will it be a drag strip or a museum?

Those questions should be answered by the marketplace, not the bureaucrat. Questions that should be asked by public officials would include: 1) Is it necessary? 2) Is it a proper function for the government at this level? 3) Can we afford it and how will it be paid for?

This attitude of "We can take from the citizens what they have and give back to them the goods and services we think they need" is not a part of the American experiment in liberty. By robbing Peter to pay Paul, the government gains control over both of them.

Another recent blessing, at least for the time being, was the re-election of U.S. Rep. Walter Jones. As a Republicrat, Walter had fallen into some disfavor with the establishment of his party because of his common-sense opposition to the military occupation of Iraq.

Though a Republican, Walter is first and foremost a representative of the people of his district, and when it comes to a conflict between their interests and those of so-called party leaders, Walter chooses to stand with his constituents.

As an independent, I appreciate this attitude. His re-election, low-keyed and inexpensive when compared with most races, with a 60 percent favorable vote is to be counted as another blessing.

And finally, N.C. Rep. Angela Bryant's statement concerning the proposed University of North Carolina building to be constructed in Rocky Mount was right on target.

Yes, we all would like a UNC campus in Rocky Mount, but there is a right way and a wrong way.

Was this a political bone being thrown to loyal supporters by an outgoing governor who has roots in the area? Or was this a slick move to open another door?

At least Ms. Bryant is willing to ask a question or two before lauding the gift. Perhaps, another small blessing.

Overall, a pretty good month, even with the value of the dollar dropping off the charts.

Mike Armstrong

Rocky Mount