I have recently been labeled a "fanatic going off on another one of my political tantrums." This from a co-worker with no higher aspiration than to get his next level 80 on some new video game release. He was backed up by another who stated that his friend committed suicide with his dads gun and that father would have to live with that fact for the rest of his life. And then it came out, I was told that some control is neccessary to preserve our safety and to prevent such tragedies, like that suicide.
Of course I responded that control addresses simptoms and education and love and respect addresses the cause. Furthermore, using that logic, we need to outlaw razorblades, bridges, skyscrappers, etc. Never argue with idiots, they drag you down to their level and beat you with experience.
So I got this thought and it is just this: I believe, or at least it appears to me (in my present state of mind) that, our Freedoms are always under attack, always.
Foreign Monarchs pressing us under the thumb of tyranny, red communists threatening us from behind an iron curtain, cowardly terrorist striking at us around the globe and now on our own soil, violent criminals robbing us of our security and comfort in our own backyards. All threatening our right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
But some attacks are not so clear. Some attacks come from our own representitives, politicans, media outlets, ignorant coworkers and family members. Most are well meaning, I'm sure. But in their misguided desire to control Hate, Violence, Poverty, etc.,they violate many of our freedoms for "the greater good." Or some simillar front.
These are the most dangerous attacks on our freedom. They come from within. Blindsides you, strikes at you with pressure from your peers, twists the meaning of one 'right' or truth to attack another. They prey on your emotions and fears. They use your own resources (taxes, media, etc) against you.
But I digress, all I mean to say is, it does appear clear that Freedom is under atack on many fronts and in many guises. If we are to defend our freedom, if we are to preserve our rights and liberties, we must be vigilant, engaged, open mouthed and active about our beliefs. I believe we must always be ready and willing to defend our God given, inalienable human rights.