Judi, its probably different in canada but we have a lot of lazy Americans and work ethic is getting worse overall, particularly for the generation coming up...very selfish and lazy. Thats why I don't understand, nor do I want, more socialist programs. I have been brought up to work hard and sarcrifice for what I want for myself and those around me. Happiness is not $...happiness is pride, honor, respect, love of self and others you care about, doing real good for others, creating opportunities for people that want them and occasional rewards shared with family (vacations, house, whatever)... but I'm also against blanket entitlements and supporting lazy attitudes and poor work ethics, which is what socialism will do in a diverse society like the US.
I am all for reasonable programs that help the sick, the elderly and those with medical misfortunes...I've just seen so much abuse in my years in medicine that I can't support more of those inept programs. I also don't trust the government to do whats best. The best organizations I have been with are small, ran by family & friends. Big business, big government, big organizations are nearly always bad in my experience. I believe strongly in personal freedom.