When exiting the Constitutional Convention in 1787, Benjamin Franklin was asked by a woman, “What kind of government have you given us?” He responded with one of the most famous quotations in history, “A Republic , if you can keep it.”

The United States of America, the world’s strongest, bravest, first-of-its-kind, most sought after land of opportunity – the country I love – is changing. For decades our elected officials have legislated outside their authority. The result has been increased powers for government, and decreased rights for individuals. It happened slowly at first, but recently has been occurring at break-neck speed as these officials increasingly, brazenly, and illegally take more liberties. This is not the premise on which my country was born, and this is why I am angry.

The founders of this country, who mutually pledged “…our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor..”, would be appalled and saddened. In a speech in Philadelphia on September 12, 1777, Thomas Paine warned us of the need to diligently protect the tenets of our Constitution, and the consequence of complacency, when he said, “Those who expect to reap the blessing of freedom, must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it.”

I have been complacent. Until a few years ago, I had not a clue. Until I started paying attention and began to research, I was unaware that I was being duped into ignorantly acquiescing , and adjusting my life to all the illegal and self-aggrandizing legislation by government officials which has 1)given them unfathomable over-reaching power, 2) cheapened my country at home and abroad and, 3) slowly whittled away my individual rights. When I realized the depth of my ignorance and apathy, I became horrifyingly aware that I have been complicit in allowing my once- extraordinary country to become ordinary; allowing my once-great country to become something much less than what millions of my countrymen have fought and died for. This is why I am ashamed.

In the same speech, Paine also said, “Now our time and turn is come, and perhaps the finishing stroke is reserved for us. When we look back on the dangers we have been saved from, and reflect on the success we have been blessed with, it would be sinful either to be idle or to despair.” Those words are just as relevant today, and I am determined that I will no longer be unknowledgeable or complacent. I will no longer hope for change. I will no longer believe that my efforts will not make a difference.

I resolve to be aware, to question boldly and to speak loudly. I will stand for my principles, my rights and my country. I encourage you to do the same.

“Give to us clear vision that we may know where to stand and what to stand for—because unless we stand for something, we shall fall for anything.”
 ~ Peter Marshall , Senate chaplain, April 18, 1947

Submitted to the Federal Observer for publication by JC Jensen, a reader and supporter.