Those of you who are ancient like me, might remember Ted Sorenson, an often quoted member of the Kennedy Administration. He was questioned by THIS WEEK magazine as to why he was a counselor to President Kennedy, when his pay and benefits didn't come close to what he was making as a top exec. at General Motors.Here ia his answer: "Outside of government one can have influence but can't wield power.My work for General Motors is challenging and stimulating, but it doesn't begin to compare with the satisfaction I had as counsel to President Kennedy." And there you have it. Some men are willing to give up wealth and influence in order to wield power.

Is what Mr. Sorenson expressed a view that is merely his and not that of the majority of those who work for government? I doubt it.From what I have experienced in any of my dealings with government, no matter how small or how great the amount of power wielded by a government employee, they will strive to use it to it's fullest extent any dealings in which their services are required. Which accounts for the animosity to be found whenever a citizen tries to deal with a government employee. It doesn't matter if it has to do with utility regulation, taxes,permits and licenses or you name it. Everyone has a horror story to tell about dealing with the government on one matter or another that must go through the hands of a Ted Sorenson type, no matter at what level.