Immigration reform must be fair and balanced

One very important issue that both Republicans and Democrats are failing to address is the fact that immigration, in addition to being legal, must also be fair for both the prospective immigrant and the taxpayers of the United States. Taxpayers, more often than not, are forced to pay the bill for those who enter this country and end up on the welfare roll.

As one who immigrated to this nation more than 50 years ago, I understand how immigration has changed my life. But that change came with hard work, perseverance and the desire to assimilate and excel in an adopted country that offered me all the opportunity to be the best that I can be, not only for me but also for my adopted country.

Since the creation of this great republic, immigrants have given their life and their expertise — to the extent that the United States today is the great nation that it is because of them. Immigrants throughout the years, including the likes of my father and grandfather, have made contributions to this nation. They and many others like them have given unselfishly to the wellbeing of all Americans.

Today’s immigrants, especially the illegal residents, are taking wealth from the U.S. instead of producing it. The greatness of America is not taking money from one individual and giving to another — a form of socialism. The greatness of America comes from the creation of wealth for everyone. It is a matter of give and take. Past immigrants gave to America unselfishly. Today’s immigrants take from America.

This is what our politicians are missing when they sit down to discuss this great issue that is so important for America.