$15 minimum wage; a deficit of empathy?

Wealth does not sustain a nation, so history teaches. It is steadfast adherence to natural law and higher values that keep individuals and nations aloft. Income inequality on a day-to-day basis, for millions of Americans in the richest country on earth, means the lack of food and shelter. I grew up in the church reading the 10 Commandments – those great universal moral laws.

Later in life, I learned about natural law, which is instinctual. Natural law, the highest of which is self-preservation is a stronger force than moral law. When one is desperate for food and among those with plenty, he or she will take from others – forced to act immorally – if required to survive. History again is full of examples.

I know what it feels like to be food and shelter insecure with a wife and children. I experienced that for 16 years. Therefore at Paul Rene, we pay all of our artisans who handcraft our works of art a livable wage. $15 is not a livable wage.