Taxes

"In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes."
- Benjamin Franklin

Who among you here loves seeing the withholding tax portion of your payslips? You might say, I could have bought something else with this. Or perhaps feel proud that you gave something to the government. Or maybe your mind is freaking out at the thought that a big chunk of it will go to the pocket of the corrupt government officials.

In early 1996, when I was still a newbie in the audit profession, I was assigned to do inventory-taking in the Tacloban branch of a large pharmaceutical company. On that same day, the warehouseman received his withholding tax certificate.

“I can’t believe the amount of the tax I paid!” he exclaimed, watching the piece of paper.

I took a peek but he willingly showed it to me. “The tax you paid is bigger than the amount of my salary for the whole year!” I told him.

He laughed. “You’re still young. You’ll earn more than I do now.” Then we totally forgot about the tax thing.

What is tax? By definition, it is a charge levied upon groups, businesses, persons or things by a government. It could be a direct tax or an indirect tax. The funds generated from taxes are used to run our government, promote stable economic growth, and lessen inequalities in the distribution of income and wealth. Taxes are supposed to be used in a good way. We may have seen road improvements with banners saying, “This is where your taxes go”. But don’t expect the same message to be bannered in a politician’s mansion.

We live taxed. We die taxed. Your vices are costly because of the sin taxes. Imported goods are heavily taxed. The beggars on the streets are taxed (indirectly). They are also supposed to pay tax on the proceeds from begging (how cruel!). Thieves are supposed to be taxed. Income from legal and illegal (who dares declare?) sources is taxable, unless there is a law exempting a specific income source.

If you don’t want to be taxed, go live in caves and in the mountains. Good thing we’re not yet taxed for blogging. By the way, this Monday (April 16) is the deadline for filing returns and paying taxes. I know accountants are very busy right now.

Refreshed

Isaiah 55: 12
“You will go out in joy

and be led forth in peace;

the mountains and hills

will burst into song before you,

and all the trees of the field

will clap their hands.”

After spending a day out there on the hills reflecting on God's wonders, and what He has done for me, it's like I'm breathing a much fresher air. It’s something that recharges my energies.

The feel of the mountain breeze against my face is so amazing. It’s not everyday we experience this. The worries may distract my attention. But it’s nothing compared to what God has done and will do for mankind.

-- -- --

There were three of us who went to enjoy the quiet and serene place. My wife prepared the food, while our friend did the driving. I would have wanted to ride this pony but I am not sure if it wants me. Too heavy perhaps. :)

Off to Somewhere

Everybody's on a vacation mode. No gloomy faces here in the office. Some had their bags packed already. Excited!

I'd be off to somewhere too: Someplace quiet and serene.