Who Sez You Gotta have A License? The Gov’ment Man, That’s Who!
Just the other day, I was thinking (yes, once in a while I think I think!) and it crossed my mind to make a list of things I can do without a license provided by some level of government. I came up with a very short list, if a list it can be called. Meanwhile, check out these abbreviated thoughts:
I have to have a license to drive, a license on the car or I can’t drive it even with a drivers’ license. If I want to be in business, guess what. Yes, I’ll need a business license. If I want to quote from a book, I’ll need permission from the author because he or she has a copyright which is like a license to control the use of the created work. If they want to be totally in control, they need an ISBN number (another way the gov’ment gets money).
If you and someone else decide you are in love and want to live together LEGALLY, you will need a license! In most instances, the person validating the license will need a license to validate the license.
If you want to make trades on the stock market on behalf of others, you will need permission (a license) from the Securities Exchange Commission (the SEC).
Want to be a professional educator? You will need a license. Want to be a lawyer? You will need a license. Want to be a physician? You will need a license. Chiropractor, podiatrist, dentist, cosmetologist, barber? Yes, you will need a license.
I could list many other professions and crafts. In fact, you need a license to be an electrician or a plumber. Of course, you need a license to pilot an airplane! Wow! What else?
Well, I decided I could at least ride my old Ryder lawnmower if … I stay in MY yard, have gasoline in it from a licensed retailer, and abide by the starting and running rules for the machine as dictated by the manufacturer who just happens to have a government issued license to operate. I rest my case.