TEA PARTY
A Bill of Rights By Bob Pierson
Freedom . What is it really ? What do the Bill of Rights provide for each of us ?
Let ’ s be really clear here . The Bill of Rights is not a list of things that the government says that we can do ! It is a list of rights that are part of who we are , as provided by our humanity , or by God , however we choose to voice it .
The Constitution of Russia has a very big list of ‘ rights ’ that are granted to the citizens of Russia . The difference here is that when ‘ man ’ gives us a right , he can also take it away . Which , in reality means , we have no rights . This type of control leaves interpretation of rights up to the whim of the government . They can be rescinded at any time if the leaders find it necessary . It is interesting to read the ‘ rights ’ listed in the United Nations Charter . They are followed up by a statement that says they are available only as long as they don ’ t interfere with the needs of the United Nations leadership . This is the difference between a government of men ( a democracy ) and a republic ( a government of laws ).
I find it very curious that some folks find big government to be a desirable item . It is not difficult for me to remember the quote “ a government big enough to provide everything , is also big enough to take everything away .” That is why I will always promote limited government . It provides the most freedom for everyone . It also provides the most opportunity for everyone .
Let ’ s start with the 1st Amendment . “ Congress shall make no law respecting as establishment of religion , or prohibiting the free exercise thereof ; or abridging the freedom of speech , or of the press ; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble , and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances .” So let ’ s ask the university students , where does a ‘ free speech zone ’ fit into this narrative ? Or where does it say I must be ‘ politically correct ’ in what I say ? That does not equate to free speech to me , nor does it follow the spirit of the 1st Amendment .
So back to the original question , what is Freedom ? It is taking responsibility for yourself , not depending on the government to help you . It means being a moral , honorable individual , even when no one is watching . Do we avoid cheating , even when we are alone ? Even on our taxes ? Do we attempt to follow the Ten Commandments in our lives ? These are good guidelines for all of us .
Freedom is not free . There are many forces in our country that are trying very hard to implement a socialist type of government . Ben Franklin is quoted as responding to a woman after the Constitution was finished , when she asked what had been created , he replied with , “ A Republic , madam , if you can keep it .” He was dead serious . Most of the originators did not expect it to last for any length of time , because of the everyday pressures on people to not participate . He knew that it would take active participation to keep the idea of America alive .
Life , work , family , apathy , and outside influences are always trying to keep us too busy . There are so many things that demand our attention . Can we all take a little time to watch our leaders and insure that they do not overburden us with costly laws , rules and regulations ? Call , e-mail , write and voice your opinion ! I know the feeling that they are not paying attention , but if we DON ’ T say anything , they certainly have no guidance from which to make decisions for us .
If you notice in the 1st Amendment above , there are actually 6 rights listed there . Next month , I will continue to address the Bill of Rights .
In the meantime , the Montana State Congress is in session for another 8 weeks , you can spend a little time protecting our nation and state from tyranny by sending them your comments on legislation . This is for our kids , and helps you to keep living the dream .
I contend that for a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle . Winston Churchill
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