but if he's unwilling to bend his head down and take a drink, what can you do? The issues you're raising fall beyond the scope of government or private charity. If some people are lacking the basic drive to better themselves, for whatever reason, then their fate is in their hands. This is why Jesus said, "the poor will always be with us." He knew that the majority of the poor are made up of people that you describe. Charity can be given so that people can have a helping hand up when misfortune strikes, but it only works for those who wish to better their situation.

IMO, freedom isn't about making everyone equal and comfortable. It's about allowing people the opportunity to achieve the lifestyle that they are willing to work for. The pursuit of happiness isn't a guarantee, just an opportunity.