Letter: Make smart choices - that’s your reward

Thursday, Sept. 27, 2007 | 7:20 a.m.

In her Sept. 21 letter ("We shouldn't have to bail out reckless buyers"), Laura Friedlander asks, "When do those people who are fiscally responsible finally get a break, too?" The short answer is never.

Those who are guided by a moral compass that requires them to be fiscally responsible should take great comfort and pride from that. You live well. You set a great example for those around you. You pay your own way. You contribute to the stability of your family, community and society in general.

You do this because it is the right thing to do. Your rewards are not tangible, but worth far more than any of the material things those on the take have gathered. You do this without thanks.

You do not do right to be noticed or repaid. You hope others will treat you as you do them, but you understand when they do not.

It is tempting to be jealous or envious of those who seem to have gotten further and accumulated more. There is no need to even consider another's life style and choices. Yours are sufficient and far nobler.

Take satisfaction just from being responsible; not many have that quality.

Mary K. Burns, Las Vegas