Now being a Taker, a good citizen for 63 years. Now being in negotiation with people like attorneys who want over $300/hour. What is my existence worth?

On the upside, I was paid for over 30 years by you, taxpayers. I was an NIH-trained scientist and paid through the majority of my worklife by federal monies. A few charities thrown in. I paid that societal debt by being underpaid for my service. At most, I hovered close to $50/hour for a few months toward the end.

My husband (now dead) and I were good tax-paying citizens of the US. He was an architect, mostly of public spaces like schools and hospitals. And our house. I have weekly battles to keep that house functional, around me, home-base for two productive young citizens of the USA.

He took Social Security early at 62, died at 63. I am 6 years younger, and could not collect Survivor's Benefits until I turned 60. That took a high financial toll, to be a good citizen and not let my house further down the course to Grey Gardens.

I live in NY. A high-tax state. My taxes consume 4 or more months of my SS deposit. I pay my taxes, even if that has meant cashing out an IRA, presenting more income tax to me. I am lucky, I agree, to be able to discuss large personal money amounts. But I run low. I see the end. It is not good. For me.

Therefore Bernie, this movement, this site. c99p is such a relief! But what am I worth? As a taker who tries to give, sometimes still monetarily? What has my life cost? what did I add?