In the last post made to this blog I spoke about a letter I would be drafting for those entering the 2010 congressional elections. My intent is to outline for those seeking my vote exactly what it would take to earn my support. There are a lot of incumbents across the country who will be seeking re-election. There are also many challengers who feel they will be better suited to represent the people within their states and districts. In a few cases the sitting senators or elected representatives are retiring from office, and new candidates from both parties will be seeking to fill their vacant seats.
In fairness to those who will be campaigning for my vote, and in an attempt to use my vote to shape the direction of our nation in the way I believe to be most appropriate, I have pulled together this letter to outline for them what I expect of the successful candidate. The way I see it, candidates for office are actually applicants applying for a job. It is you and I collectively who make the hiring decision. It would not be fair to hire someone for a job if they did not know what was expected of them, right?
Our country is at a cross-roads. We are going to either preserve the nation and system of government inspired by God and laid out by our founding fathers, or we are going to witness the founding of a new America. The are many clamoring to be the founding fathers of a new nation that will have very little resemblance to the land we know and love. Our votes in the upcoming elections are not just votes for individual candidates, they are votes for what future we want to see for America. As outlined in the last post, some citizens in a few states have already started to let their voices be heard. They shouted a clear message. . . with their votes. We can do the same.
And so, back to the letter. I have provided the link below to a letter that I will be sending to those seeking office in my home state in the 2010 mid-term elections. I want them to know where I stand and where they need to stand if they want my vote and any influence I wield in shaping the opinions, and thereby the votes, of others.
Letter to Candidates For Office
I invite all to join me in this. You are welcome to use my letter if you would like. And by all means, please share with anyone else who you feel may adhere to the same views and would send the letter to those seeking office in their area. Or, perhaps this has stirred some thoughts in your own minds and you'd like to draft a letter of your own. I would love to see the offices of all candidates seeking office in 2010 flooded with such letters.
To help you with this, if you are interested, I'm also including the following link to see who is running for open seats in November across all 50 states for both Senate and House. Simply click on your state to see who is running for each position, and determine who you want to send a letter to.
Who's Running In My State -- House and Senate
If you draft a letter of your own, please share with the rest of us to help stimulate ideas. If you choose to use my letter, I apologize for my long windedness (if that's even a word), but I hope you can use it nonetheless. Together we can join to make a cascade of voices that will be heard and respected by those seeking to represent us.
Thanks and God bless. . .
Richard
_________________________________________________________________
All Class III Senate seats are up for re-election in November of 2010:
Bayh, Evan (D-IN)
Bennet, Michael F. (D-CO)
Boxer, Barbara (D-CA)
Burris, Roland W. (D-IL)
Dodd, Christopher J. (D-CT)
Dorgan, Byron L. (D-ND)
Feingold, Russell D. (D-WI)
Inouye, Daniel K. (D-HI)
Leahy, Patrick J. (D-VT)
Lincoln, Blanche L. (D-AR)
Mikulski, Barbara A. (D-MD)
Murray, Patty (D-WA)
Reid, Harry (D-NV)
Schumer, Charles E. (D-NY)
Specter, Arlen (D-PA)
Wyden, Ron (D-OR)
Bennett, Robert F. (R-UT)
Bond, Christopher S. (R-MO) - Retiring, will not seek reelection
Brownback, Sam (R-KS) - Retiring, will not seek reelection
Bunning, Jim (R-KY) - Retiring, will not seek reelection
Burr, Richard (R-NC)
Coburn, Tom (R-OK)
Crapo, Mike (R-ID)
DeMint, Jim (R-SC)
Grassley, Chuck (R-IA)
Gregg, Judd (R-NH) - Retiring, will not seek reelection
Isakson, Johnny (R-GA)
LeMieux, George S. (R-FL) - Retiring, will not seek reelection
McCain, John (R-AZ)
Murkowski, Lisa (R-AK)
Shelby, Richard C. (R-AL)
Thune, John (R-SD)
Vitter, David (R-LA)
Voinovich, George V. (R-OH) - Retiring, will not seek reelection
Monday, November 16, 2009
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Small Victories
Its easy to be disheartened when so many things around you seem to be going wrong. The giants of history are those men and women who were able to transcend the moment when failure seemed assured and the path to victory was completely hidden from view. Have you ever wondered how Abraham Lincoln kept going when half the Union had seceded and families were raising arms against their own? It must have seemed an impossible task for him to hold the nation together and remain true to what he believed was right. Or what about George Washington? Imagine how he must have felt in the winter of 1776. His ragtag army had just suffered humiliating defeats and had been forced to retreat across the state of New York. The conscriptions of a large portion of his troops were on the verge of expiring and he stood to lose any semblance of a fighting force to go against the British. There were few people anywhere in the world that believed this revolution could ever succeed. I can’t imagine a situation in which failure could appear more assured. How did he muster the courage to cross the Delaware on Christmas Eve to attack forces in Trenton and then Princeton, effectively marking the turning point in the revolution?
Somehow these men, and others throughout history, retained their faith and vision, their courage and commitment. As we seek to emulate them, one way we can keep hope alive is to recognize small victories along the way. This is particularly true for those of us choosing to engage in the battle to preserve the nation we love and the freedoms it represents. When we hear the talking heads in Washington setting an agenda that is contrary to everything we hold dear, and do so with indifference and disdain for the opinion of those they represent, it can seem like a lost cause. Imagine the audacity of Nancy Pelosi to simply laugh off a US citizen who asked her where congress derives the authority to force Americans to enroll in healthcare coverage or be fined by the government. Rather than engage in dialogue to defend her position (although it is, in my view, indefensible) she was dismissive and disrespectful. This would be nothing more than an unfortunate incident if it had not become the modus operandi of politicians in Washington. I’m struck by the arrogance of politicians who label Americans who disagree with their views as ignorant, uneducated, or racist. The institutions of power, from politicians to media outlets to Hollywood are clearly committed to moving America away from our traditional moorings and initiating a socialist inspired new world. It would certainly appear that the house holds the advantage and the American people are about to lose their chips. In some ways it’s reminiscent of General Washington’s predicament so many years ago.
But like Lincoln and Washington, we should not give up the fight. When it seems that we’re faltering and the chances of success seem to be slipping away, we become aware of small victories along the way that give us hope and remind us that the fight can and must go on.
This past week I was driving from New York City to the location of a business meeting I had scheduled in New Jersey. As I merged onto the Jersey Turnpike and crossed over into New Jersey, I was greeted by a large sign welcoming me on behalf of Governor John S. Corzine to the state. As I saw this sign, I couldn’t help but smile as it caused me to think about one of these small victories. It was just the night before that the citizens of New Jersey went to the polls and exercised their democratic right to remove Mr. Corzine from office. Many of you are aware that the outgoing governor of New Jersey is very liberal and has a view of the role of government different than what was envisioned by the founders of our nation. So it certainly can be considered a victory that the voice of the people rejected an individual who does not defend economic freedom and individual liberty. But this victory is even more noteworthy when considering that New Jersey has traditionally been one of the most solid liberal strong holds in our nation. The victorious candidate, Chris Christie is not as staunchly conservative as I, or others, would like, but the fact that an incumbent democrat was unseated by a republican challenger in New Jersey indicates a substantial message being sent by the public . . and this is a victory for the conservative movement.
There was also a victory achieved in the state of Virginia on Tuesday night. Similar to the change achieved in New Jersey, a democratic governor was defeated by a republican challenger. In this case the victor, Bob McDonnell is not only Republican, but considered conservative in his political philosophy (unfortunately republican and conservative are no longer synonymous).
In the 23rd Congressional District of New York, perhaps the biggest victory of the night was achieved . . . and it occurred within an electoral loss. This race was supposed to be a battle between the democratic candidate, Bill Owens, and Dierdre Scozzafava, the candidate backed by the republican party. The problem, however, was that Scozzafava, despite being the republican candidate, does not represent conservatism and cleaves to fairly liberal ideology. With the two parties not presenting any real alternative in their candidates, the usually dormant Conservative Party in New York came to life. Doug Hoffman ran as a conservative candidate and sent a resounding message to both the republican party, and the nation. Although the democrat, Bill Owens, ended up winning the election, he edged Hoffman by only about 5,000 votes. The RINO candidate backed by the party, who actually withdrew from the race 3 days before the election and promptly endorsed the democratic candidate, left her name on the ballot and received only a paltry 5.5% of the vote total.
Democrats across the nation are pointing to this race as an indicator that the public is still choosing liberal candidates. However, the facts that Hoffman was a late entrant to the race, destroyed the prospects of the republican party candidate, represented a third party, and lost only by the narrowest of margins, cannot be ignored. This race has shown that the republican base is insisting on a return to traditional conservatism. Party leaders, take note. . .
These are small victories in the context of a broader fight to preserve our liberty, but victories nonetheless. There are a couple of reasons why these local elections represent much more than victories for just the states and districts wherein they occurred. First, these victories demonstrate that there is a shift occurring in the minds and hearts of the public in some of the most liberal areas of our nation. Second, the citizens of New Jersey, Virginia, and New York have given us an example of what can be done across our nation. Where elected representatives and public servants fail to uphold our constitution and preserve the role of government intended for our nation, they can and must be removed from office. This is the mandate of our founding fathers and the responsibility of those who love liberty. Those elected to public office serve at the pleasure of the citizens they represent. If they lose sight of this most important fact, the citizens they serve must remove them from their positions. These three states have shown the power of the electoral process, and a message has been sent.
Citizens of all states should sit up and take notice. We have the same opportunity to exercise the power of “we the people” and shape the direction of our land. In 2010 many of our nation’s elected representatives will be facing re-election in the congressional mid-terms. They are applying for a job, and we are making the hiring decision. I intend to send a very clear message to those in my state who will be seeking to retain their employment. I invite you all, regardless of the state wherein you reside, to join me.
In the next post on this blog I will be sharing a letter that I am going to send to those seeking reelection in my state. This letter will outline for each of them what I expect them to do and stand for if they would like to receive my vote and my influence in gaining additional votes. I will then send follow-up letters between now and next November reviewing how they’re doing in living up to these expectations. I want it to be very clear to them that they will face fierce opposition in their re-election efforts, unless they stand for the principles of individual liberty, economic freedom, and fiscal responsibility.
Once you see the letter in the upcoming post, I hope you’ll either use that letter as a template, or create one of your own to send to those holding public office in your state. It would be great to have their offices flooded with such letters making it abundantly clear what is expected of them if they want to retain the positions many of them seem to covet so highly.
Small victories can be very large when it comes to inspiring us forward. Thank you to the citizens of New York, New Jersey, and Virginia for supplying us with this gleam of hope in the face of the odds we face in our battle. Let us now carry on and be the purveyors of more small victories that will lead to larger victories, and inevitably overall success.
Richard
Somehow these men, and others throughout history, retained their faith and vision, their courage and commitment. As we seek to emulate them, one way we can keep hope alive is to recognize small victories along the way. This is particularly true for those of us choosing to engage in the battle to preserve the nation we love and the freedoms it represents. When we hear the talking heads in Washington setting an agenda that is contrary to everything we hold dear, and do so with indifference and disdain for the opinion of those they represent, it can seem like a lost cause. Imagine the audacity of Nancy Pelosi to simply laugh off a US citizen who asked her where congress derives the authority to force Americans to enroll in healthcare coverage or be fined by the government. Rather than engage in dialogue to defend her position (although it is, in my view, indefensible) she was dismissive and disrespectful. This would be nothing more than an unfortunate incident if it had not become the modus operandi of politicians in Washington. I’m struck by the arrogance of politicians who label Americans who disagree with their views as ignorant, uneducated, or racist. The institutions of power, from politicians to media outlets to Hollywood are clearly committed to moving America away from our traditional moorings and initiating a socialist inspired new world. It would certainly appear that the house holds the advantage and the American people are about to lose their chips. In some ways it’s reminiscent of General Washington’s predicament so many years ago.
But like Lincoln and Washington, we should not give up the fight. When it seems that we’re faltering and the chances of success seem to be slipping away, we become aware of small victories along the way that give us hope and remind us that the fight can and must go on.
This past week I was driving from New York City to the location of a business meeting I had scheduled in New Jersey. As I merged onto the Jersey Turnpike and crossed over into New Jersey, I was greeted by a large sign welcoming me on behalf of Governor John S. Corzine to the state. As I saw this sign, I couldn’t help but smile as it caused me to think about one of these small victories. It was just the night before that the citizens of New Jersey went to the polls and exercised their democratic right to remove Mr. Corzine from office. Many of you are aware that the outgoing governor of New Jersey is very liberal and has a view of the role of government different than what was envisioned by the founders of our nation. So it certainly can be considered a victory that the voice of the people rejected an individual who does not defend economic freedom and individual liberty. But this victory is even more noteworthy when considering that New Jersey has traditionally been one of the most solid liberal strong holds in our nation. The victorious candidate, Chris Christie is not as staunchly conservative as I, or others, would like, but the fact that an incumbent democrat was unseated by a republican challenger in New Jersey indicates a substantial message being sent by the public . . and this is a victory for the conservative movement.
There was also a victory achieved in the state of Virginia on Tuesday night. Similar to the change achieved in New Jersey, a democratic governor was defeated by a republican challenger. In this case the victor, Bob McDonnell is not only Republican, but considered conservative in his political philosophy (unfortunately republican and conservative are no longer synonymous).
In the 23rd Congressional District of New York, perhaps the biggest victory of the night was achieved . . . and it occurred within an electoral loss. This race was supposed to be a battle between the democratic candidate, Bill Owens, and Dierdre Scozzafava, the candidate backed by the republican party. The problem, however, was that Scozzafava, despite being the republican candidate, does not represent conservatism and cleaves to fairly liberal ideology. With the two parties not presenting any real alternative in their candidates, the usually dormant Conservative Party in New York came to life. Doug Hoffman ran as a conservative candidate and sent a resounding message to both the republican party, and the nation. Although the democrat, Bill Owens, ended up winning the election, he edged Hoffman by only about 5,000 votes. The RINO candidate backed by the party, who actually withdrew from the race 3 days before the election and promptly endorsed the democratic candidate, left her name on the ballot and received only a paltry 5.5% of the vote total.
Democrats across the nation are pointing to this race as an indicator that the public is still choosing liberal candidates. However, the facts that Hoffman was a late entrant to the race, destroyed the prospects of the republican party candidate, represented a third party, and lost only by the narrowest of margins, cannot be ignored. This race has shown that the republican base is insisting on a return to traditional conservatism. Party leaders, take note. . .
These are small victories in the context of a broader fight to preserve our liberty, but victories nonetheless. There are a couple of reasons why these local elections represent much more than victories for just the states and districts wherein they occurred. First, these victories demonstrate that there is a shift occurring in the minds and hearts of the public in some of the most liberal areas of our nation. Second, the citizens of New Jersey, Virginia, and New York have given us an example of what can be done across our nation. Where elected representatives and public servants fail to uphold our constitution and preserve the role of government intended for our nation, they can and must be removed from office. This is the mandate of our founding fathers and the responsibility of those who love liberty. Those elected to public office serve at the pleasure of the citizens they represent. If they lose sight of this most important fact, the citizens they serve must remove them from their positions. These three states have shown the power of the electoral process, and a message has been sent.
Citizens of all states should sit up and take notice. We have the same opportunity to exercise the power of “we the people” and shape the direction of our land. In 2010 many of our nation’s elected representatives will be facing re-election in the congressional mid-terms. They are applying for a job, and we are making the hiring decision. I intend to send a very clear message to those in my state who will be seeking to retain their employment. I invite you all, regardless of the state wherein you reside, to join me.
In the next post on this blog I will be sharing a letter that I am going to send to those seeking reelection in my state. This letter will outline for each of them what I expect them to do and stand for if they would like to receive my vote and my influence in gaining additional votes. I will then send follow-up letters between now and next November reviewing how they’re doing in living up to these expectations. I want it to be very clear to them that they will face fierce opposition in their re-election efforts, unless they stand for the principles of individual liberty, economic freedom, and fiscal responsibility.
Once you see the letter in the upcoming post, I hope you’ll either use that letter as a template, or create one of your own to send to those holding public office in your state. It would be great to have their offices flooded with such letters making it abundantly clear what is expected of them if they want to retain the positions many of them seem to covet so highly.
Small victories can be very large when it comes to inspiring us forward. Thank you to the citizens of New York, New Jersey, and Virginia for supplying us with this gleam of hope in the face of the odds we face in our battle. Let us now carry on and be the purveyors of more small victories that will lead to larger victories, and inevitably overall success.
Richard
Monday, November 2, 2009
Halloween Frightmares
Ahhh, the autumn season. This is the time of year many look forward to. The air is getting crisp, the leaves are changing to beautiful shades of red, orange and yellow, the harvest is coming in, and Saturdays are filled with college football games. Its also the time of year the days get shorter and we start to spend more time in the dark. No wonder that its also the time of year for all things goulish and macabre. I must admit that although I'm not a big fan of horror movies, I can't resist settling in on a dark October night to watch a good ghost story. It just seems to get me in the mood for Halloween. One reason I'm not an afficionado of the scary of movie is that they just don't seem to scare me much anymore. I guess I've become too pragmatic in my old age and what seemed creepy and suspenseful when I was younger, just doesn't faze me. I don't get the adrenaline rush and sit up on the edge of my seat like I used to.
But I have to admit that this Halloween season I found myself scared out of my wits. No, its not because we're once again haunted by the specter of the BCS system, although that does send a chill down my spine. I'm scared because of the following quote I read from a series of essays written in the late 19th century and compiled by famous playwright and avid socialist George Bernard Shaw. The essays are titled the Fabian Essays on Socialism, and were an authoritative source on how to acheive socialism through a slow and drawn out process of gradual change.
Before sharing the quote that chilled me to the bone, let me give some very quick background on Fabian Socialism. The Fabians are a group of English socialists who believed that rather than acheiving socialist rule through revolution, such as the approach advocated by some and adopted by Lenin in the Russian revolution of 1917, it could be acheived by slow, methodical change over a long period of time. The society was named for the Roman General Fabius who won battles through long, drawn-out engagements of attrition rather than through heavy conflict. Ultimately, the objective of the Fabian Socialists is identical to that of other socialist philosophies, including communism, but simply advocates a different set of tactics for acheiving that objective.
Anyway, getting back to our tale of fright, as I was doing some background reading I came across the following statement about how the fabian approach can be used to undermine a capitalist system and achieve socialstic ends.
"The private capitalist, however, will still be in business, producing and distributing on his own account in competition with the communal organization, which at present will have occupied only part of the industrial field. But. . . these private enterprises will be carried on under circumstances of ever-increasing difficulty. . . After a while the private producers will disappear, not because there will be any law against individualist production, but because they will not pay."
What, you ask, is so frightening about this statement? Well, let me explain by translating this statement using language a bit more familiar to our current national dialogue. Try this on for size.
"The private health insurance provider, however, will still be in business issuing insurance packages in competition with the public option, which at present will have occupied only part of the industry. But. . . . these private health insurance providers will operate under circumstances of ever-increasing difficulty. . . After a while the private health insurance providers will disappear, not because there will be any law against private insurance, but because they will not be able to make money."
We're all painfully aware of the ongoing debate around the future of healthcare in our country. Almost everyone has an opinion either for or against the proposals currently circulating in Washington. Whatever people may feel about the current state of healthcare or the need for reform, it is important to understand that the central aspect of this debate has very little to do with healthcare or insuring those in our country who don't currently have coverage. The core of the current healthcare debate is the expansion of governmental control.
Over the last couple of weeks liberal Senators have insisted that they will not support a healthcare bill that does not include a public option. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has replaced the public option that had temporarily been removed from the legislation. The rationale our elected representatives have provided for including a public option is that it is necessary to introduce competition into the marketplace. This is an explanation that borders on complete absurdity when considering how a market actually works in a free enterprise system. Rather than fostering competition, the presence of a government entity can only eliminate private options. How can an organization that must create shareholder value and earn profit compete with an entity that can run at perennial losses and be continually subsidized by tax payer proceeds? It is clear that the insistence of a public option in the healthcare industry is not intended to spur competition, it is intended to acheive a single payer system in which all healthcare will be controlled by the government.
It is enlightening, infuriating, and frightening to see that the tactic being used by those in power is not new. It is directly out of the playbook developed by the fabians over a century ago.
Take a few minutes to watch the following video clip. You'll see even more clearly that the intent is not to improve our healthcare situation, but rather to gain governmental control over a vast portion of our economy. If this happens, the reach of government into our lives and the suspension of individual liberty will be immense.
As we consider those elements threatening our liberty today, we must see the current battle for what it is. One of the underhanded tactics of the ages is to keep people from seeing the true nature of the battle. In our nation today, there is a fundamental struggle occurring between the forces of freedom and the forces of tyranny. It is preserving the America founded by inspired men, characterized by free markets and individual liberty, or it is transitioning to a new America characterized by socialism and pervasive government control. .Those wishing to change America, however, are taking great care to hide their intentions. We must take note that what is happening today, as exemplified by the current healthcare debate, is nothing more than a method of converting a capatilistic nation to socialism.
I've outgrown being scared by Hollywood's tales of fright, because as much as I try to suspend disbelief, I know its all make-believe. It just takes the edge off and keeps my adrenaline levels and heart rate in check. But this horror story of liberty being lost has me shaking in my boots. But this can still be a story with a happy ending if we stand up now in defense of our liberty.
Thanks,
Richard
References:
- Fabian Essays on Socialism, Doubleday & Co., New York p. 195. Also found online at http://oll.libertyfund.org/?option=com_staticxt&staticfile=show.php%3Ftitle=298
- The Fabian Society London School of Economics and Political Science http://www.lse.ac.uk/resources/LSEHistory/fabian.htm
But I have to admit that this Halloween season I found myself scared out of my wits. No, its not because we're once again haunted by the specter of the BCS system, although that does send a chill down my spine. I'm scared because of the following quote I read from a series of essays written in the late 19th century and compiled by famous playwright and avid socialist George Bernard Shaw. The essays are titled the Fabian Essays on Socialism, and were an authoritative source on how to acheive socialism through a slow and drawn out process of gradual change.
Before sharing the quote that chilled me to the bone, let me give some very quick background on Fabian Socialism. The Fabians are a group of English socialists who believed that rather than acheiving socialist rule through revolution, such as the approach advocated by some and adopted by Lenin in the Russian revolution of 1917, it could be acheived by slow, methodical change over a long period of time. The society was named for the Roman General Fabius who won battles through long, drawn-out engagements of attrition rather than through heavy conflict. Ultimately, the objective of the Fabian Socialists is identical to that of other socialist philosophies, including communism, but simply advocates a different set of tactics for acheiving that objective.
Anyway, getting back to our tale of fright, as I was doing some background reading I came across the following statement about how the fabian approach can be used to undermine a capitalist system and achieve socialstic ends.
"The private capitalist, however, will still be in business, producing and distributing on his own account in competition with the communal organization, which at present will have occupied only part of the industrial field. But. . . these private enterprises will be carried on under circumstances of ever-increasing difficulty. . . After a while the private producers will disappear, not because there will be any law against individualist production, but because they will not pay."
What, you ask, is so frightening about this statement? Well, let me explain by translating this statement using language a bit more familiar to our current national dialogue. Try this on for size.
"The private health insurance provider, however, will still be in business issuing insurance packages in competition with the public option, which at present will have occupied only part of the industry. But. . . . these private health insurance providers will operate under circumstances of ever-increasing difficulty. . . After a while the private health insurance providers will disappear, not because there will be any law against private insurance, but because they will not be able to make money."
We're all painfully aware of the ongoing debate around the future of healthcare in our country. Almost everyone has an opinion either for or against the proposals currently circulating in Washington. Whatever people may feel about the current state of healthcare or the need for reform, it is important to understand that the central aspect of this debate has very little to do with healthcare or insuring those in our country who don't currently have coverage. The core of the current healthcare debate is the expansion of governmental control.
Over the last couple of weeks liberal Senators have insisted that they will not support a healthcare bill that does not include a public option. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has replaced the public option that had temporarily been removed from the legislation. The rationale our elected representatives have provided for including a public option is that it is necessary to introduce competition into the marketplace. This is an explanation that borders on complete absurdity when considering how a market actually works in a free enterprise system. Rather than fostering competition, the presence of a government entity can only eliminate private options. How can an organization that must create shareholder value and earn profit compete with an entity that can run at perennial losses and be continually subsidized by tax payer proceeds? It is clear that the insistence of a public option in the healthcare industry is not intended to spur competition, it is intended to acheive a single payer system in which all healthcare will be controlled by the government.
It is enlightening, infuriating, and frightening to see that the tactic being used by those in power is not new. It is directly out of the playbook developed by the fabians over a century ago.
Take a few minutes to watch the following video clip. You'll see even more clearly that the intent is not to improve our healthcare situation, but rather to gain governmental control over a vast portion of our economy. If this happens, the reach of government into our lives and the suspension of individual liberty will be immense.
As we consider those elements threatening our liberty today, we must see the current battle for what it is. One of the underhanded tactics of the ages is to keep people from seeing the true nature of the battle. In our nation today, there is a fundamental struggle occurring between the forces of freedom and the forces of tyranny. It is preserving the America founded by inspired men, characterized by free markets and individual liberty, or it is transitioning to a new America characterized by socialism and pervasive government control. .Those wishing to change America, however, are taking great care to hide their intentions. We must take note that what is happening today, as exemplified by the current healthcare debate, is nothing more than a method of converting a capatilistic nation to socialism.
I've outgrown being scared by Hollywood's tales of fright, because as much as I try to suspend disbelief, I know its all make-believe. It just takes the edge off and keeps my adrenaline levels and heart rate in check. But this horror story of liberty being lost has me shaking in my boots. But this can still be a story with a happy ending if we stand up now in defense of our liberty.
Thanks,
Richard
References:
- Fabian Essays on Socialism, Doubleday & Co., New York p. 195. Also found online at http://oll.libertyfund.org/?option=com_staticxt&staticfile=show.php%3Ftitle=298
- The Fabian Society London School of Economics and Political Science http://www.lse.ac.uk/resources/LSEHistory/fabian.htm
Monday, October 26, 2009
What Comes Next. . .
Since this blog was started earlier this year, there have been several different topics addressed. We've discussed whether or not America is traveling a road that could lead to what David O. McKay called the "soul destroying land of socialism". We reviewed some fundamental principles that are essential to preserving liberty, and the importance of helping our children cleave to true principles. Then there have been many posts discussing the price that has been paid for our liberty, those who paid that price, and the responsibility we have in our day to bear our portion of liberty's cost.
This blog has tried to outline the mainstay of freedom that has been our heritage, and the fact that our country is changing in ways that threaten to diminish our individual liberties. In many ways this has been an attempt on my part to raise a faint and feeble voice of warning about the need to preserve the liberty to exercise our agency, which I believe is a fundamental part of God's plan for His children.
It is my intent to now start using this blog to take a closer look at those things happening in our nation today, review how these things contribute to the preservation or peril of our freedom, and to hopefully explore some ways that each of us, both as individuals and as a people, can stand up to defend our liberty and way of life. By doing this we can view actual examples of our freedom in jeopardy, and come up with ways to intervene in defense of our liberty.
But I'd like to take just one more opportunity to share a few thoughts about how important it has become to defend the freedoms we possess. This time, however, it will be in the words of someone whose voice is much more articulate and empassioned than mine.
Please consider the following words from Ezra Taft Benson:
"The one great revolution in the world today is the revolution for human liberty. This was the paramount issue we all faced in the great council in heaven before this earth life. It has been the issue throughout the ages. It is the issue today.
"It is difficult for Americans to understand the danger to our liberty. 'It is generally outside the range of our experience.'
"But we live today in an age of peril. We are threatened with the loss not only of material wealth but of something far more precious--our liberty itself.
"Never before in the history of our country has there been a greater need for all of our people to take time to discover what is happening in the world. Every day decisions are being made affecting the lives ofmillions of human beings.
"We as a people have never known bondage. Liberty has always been our blessed lot. Few of us have ever seen people who have lost their freedom--their liberty. And when reminded of the danger of losing our liberty and independence our attitude has usually been--It cannot hapen here.
"We must never forget that nations may--and they usually do-- sow the seeds of their own destruction while enjoying unprecedented prosperity.
"The children of Israel were willing to sacrifice liberty and wanted Moses to be their king. Generations later their descendants begged Samuel the Prophet to give them a king. He pointed out the fallacy of their reasoning.
"Samuel, like other great spiritual leaders both ancient and modern, saw the results that would follow the surrender of liberty.
"In that sacred volume of scripture, the Book of Mormon, we note the great and prolonged struggle for liberty. We also note the complacency of the people and their frequent willingness to give up their liberty for the promises of a would-be provider.
"The record reveals that men 'of cunning device. . . and . . . many flattering words, ' . . . sought. . . . 'to destroy the foundation of liberty which God had granted unto them. . .'
"Then Moroni, the chief commander of the armies. . . dramatically rent his coat; and he took a piece thereof, and wrote upon it--'In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children'--and he fastened it upon the end of a pole. . . . (and he called it the title of liberty) and he bowed himself to the earth, and he prayed mightily unto his God for the blessings of liberty, to rest upon his brethren. . . .' (Alma 46)
"This great general Moroni, like the prophets whose words are recorded in the Book of Mormon, spoke of the Americas as a choseen land--the land of liberty. He led the people in battle who were willing to fight to 'maintain their liberty.'
"This is our need today--to plant the standard of libety amoung our people throughout the Americas.
"While this incident ocurred some seventy years before Christ, the struggle continued through one thousand years as covered by this sacred Book of Mormon record. In fact, the struggle for liberty is a continuing one--it is with us in a very real sense today right here on this choice land of the Americas.
". . . There are, of course, many reasons. Our apathy--our complacent indifference is a major cause. Today, in America we are living in a fool's paradise. We have permitted ourselves to be pacified and lulled away into carnal security as the Book of Mormon prophets predicted.
" As a people who have known only liberty we are inclined to feel it cannot happen here. We have become lulled away into a false security.
". . . .Yes, we all say, we love liberty. But that is not enough. We must protect and safeguard that which we love. We must save liberty. God grant us the wisdom and courage so to do, before it is too late. "
So there we have it, from someone with much more authority and credibility on the matter than I could ever hope to attain.
If we love liberty, which I know we all do, whether or not it is at the front of our mind or just taken as granted, then "we must save liberty"! Please participate in this blog as one form of standing up in defense of liberty. As the coming content of this blog looks at examples of our freedom being lost, and explores ways to preserve it, please take the time to comment and add your voice to the dialogue, then share this blog with everyone you can so more and more people are involved in the discussion. In this way we can work together to make our individual contributions to this small discussion forum, which can lead to more and more people taking a stand. . . but it means we all must be active in sharing our thoughts, feelings and opinions.
Thanks,
Richard
Source: The Title of Liberty, A Warning Voice. Ezra Taft Benson (compiled by Mark A. Benson) Deseret Book Company pp 92-103
This blog has tried to outline the mainstay of freedom that has been our heritage, and the fact that our country is changing in ways that threaten to diminish our individual liberties. In many ways this has been an attempt on my part to raise a faint and feeble voice of warning about the need to preserve the liberty to exercise our agency, which I believe is a fundamental part of God's plan for His children.
It is my intent to now start using this blog to take a closer look at those things happening in our nation today, review how these things contribute to the preservation or peril of our freedom, and to hopefully explore some ways that each of us, both as individuals and as a people, can stand up to defend our liberty and way of life. By doing this we can view actual examples of our freedom in jeopardy, and come up with ways to intervene in defense of our liberty.
But I'd like to take just one more opportunity to share a few thoughts about how important it has become to defend the freedoms we possess. This time, however, it will be in the words of someone whose voice is much more articulate and empassioned than mine.
Please consider the following words from Ezra Taft Benson:
"The one great revolution in the world today is the revolution for human liberty. This was the paramount issue we all faced in the great council in heaven before this earth life. It has been the issue throughout the ages. It is the issue today.
"It is difficult for Americans to understand the danger to our liberty. 'It is generally outside the range of our experience.'
"But we live today in an age of peril. We are threatened with the loss not only of material wealth but of something far more precious--our liberty itself.
"Never before in the history of our country has there been a greater need for all of our people to take time to discover what is happening in the world. Every day decisions are being made affecting the lives ofmillions of human beings.
"We as a people have never known bondage. Liberty has always been our blessed lot. Few of us have ever seen people who have lost their freedom--their liberty. And when reminded of the danger of losing our liberty and independence our attitude has usually been--It cannot hapen here.
"We must never forget that nations may--and they usually do-- sow the seeds of their own destruction while enjoying unprecedented prosperity.
"The children of Israel were willing to sacrifice liberty and wanted Moses to be their king. Generations later their descendants begged Samuel the Prophet to give them a king. He pointed out the fallacy of their reasoning.
"Samuel, like other great spiritual leaders both ancient and modern, saw the results that would follow the surrender of liberty.
"In that sacred volume of scripture, the Book of Mormon, we note the great and prolonged struggle for liberty. We also note the complacency of the people and their frequent willingness to give up their liberty for the promises of a would-be provider.
"The record reveals that men 'of cunning device. . . and . . . many flattering words, ' . . . sought. . . . 'to destroy the foundation of liberty which God had granted unto them. . .'
"Then Moroni, the chief commander of the armies. . . dramatically rent his coat; and he took a piece thereof, and wrote upon it--'In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children'--and he fastened it upon the end of a pole. . . . (and he called it the title of liberty) and he bowed himself to the earth, and he prayed mightily unto his God for the blessings of liberty, to rest upon his brethren. . . .' (Alma 46)
"This great general Moroni, like the prophets whose words are recorded in the Book of Mormon, spoke of the Americas as a choseen land--the land of liberty. He led the people in battle who were willing to fight to 'maintain their liberty.'
"This is our need today--to plant the standard of libety amoung our people throughout the Americas.
"While this incident ocurred some seventy years before Christ, the struggle continued through one thousand years as covered by this sacred Book of Mormon record. In fact, the struggle for liberty is a continuing one--it is with us in a very real sense today right here on this choice land of the Americas.
". . . There are, of course, many reasons. Our apathy--our complacent indifference is a major cause. Today, in America we are living in a fool's paradise. We have permitted ourselves to be pacified and lulled away into carnal security as the Book of Mormon prophets predicted.
" As a people who have known only liberty we are inclined to feel it cannot happen here. We have become lulled away into a false security.
". . . .Yes, we all say, we love liberty. But that is not enough. We must protect and safeguard that which we love. We must save liberty. God grant us the wisdom and courage so to do, before it is too late. "
So there we have it, from someone with much more authority and credibility on the matter than I could ever hope to attain.
If we love liberty, which I know we all do, whether or not it is at the front of our mind or just taken as granted, then "we must save liberty"! Please participate in this blog as one form of standing up in defense of liberty. As the coming content of this blog looks at examples of our freedom being lost, and explores ways to preserve it, please take the time to comment and add your voice to the dialogue, then share this blog with everyone you can so more and more people are involved in the discussion. In this way we can work together to make our individual contributions to this small discussion forum, which can lead to more and more people taking a stand. . . but it means we all must be active in sharing our thoughts, feelings and opinions.
Thanks,
Richard
Source: The Title of Liberty, A Warning Voice. Ezra Taft Benson (compiled by Mark A. Benson) Deseret Book Company pp 92-103
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Snake Oil Salesmen In Our Midst
There are those in our country who believe America is the greatest country on earth. I am one of those people. I believe that not only is America the greatest country on our planet, but it is the greatest nation in all of history. America has led the world in truth, justice, freedom, goodness, and compassion. People are not perfect, therefore our nation is not perfect, but it is a chosen land with a government inspired by God. I believe, as stated by Alexis De' Tocqueville, that America is great because America is good. I believe that the American system has lifted millions out of poverty, relieved untold amounts of suffering, and dignified the human condition.
There are also those in our country who believe America is the source of many of the world's problems. They believe America is a nation of greed, pride, excess and selfishness. These people advocate a nation in which government assumes the responsibility to care for and support the nation, because individuals are not good enough to maintain this responsibility for themselves and their neighbors. They believe that free enterprise and personal liberty can only end in selfishness and greed. They believe that the state must step in to override the greed of people. They believe that people are inherently bad, and that an inherently good government is the antitode to human frailty. They believe that the system upon which our nation was founded is flawed, that the experiment has failed, and that its time to "fundamentally change" America.
We've had these two groups of people in our nation throughout its history, and we undoubtedly always will.
Please take a few minutes to watch this cartoon produced in 1948 by Harding College.
As you viewed this cartoon clip, I'm sure many things jumped out at you as they did at me. Let me share just a few of my observations about this, then I'd love to hear some of your comments.
Well, there's much more that can be derived from this highly relevant cartoon clip, but I'd rather hear thoughts from the rest of you. Please, please, please click on the comments link below and share your impressions. There are 260 people viewing this blog, let them know your thoughts and positions on this important matter.
Thanks,
Richard
There are also those in our country who believe America is the source of many of the world's problems. They believe America is a nation of greed, pride, excess and selfishness. These people advocate a nation in which government assumes the responsibility to care for and support the nation, because individuals are not good enough to maintain this responsibility for themselves and their neighbors. They believe that free enterprise and personal liberty can only end in selfishness and greed. They believe that the state must step in to override the greed of people. They believe that people are inherently bad, and that an inherently good government is the antitode to human frailty. They believe that the system upon which our nation was founded is flawed, that the experiment has failed, and that its time to "fundamentally change" America.
We've had these two groups of people in our nation throughout its history, and we undoubtedly always will.
Please take a few minutes to watch this cartoon produced in 1948 by Harding College.
As you viewed this cartoon clip, I'm sure many things jumped out at you as they did at me. Let me share just a few of my observations about this, then I'd love to hear some of your comments.
- This was produced in 1948. The battle we're facing is not new. But today we are much more vulnerable than we have been in previous decades. Never before has our society been so spiritually bereft and estranged from God. This makes us much more susceptible to the guiles of those peddling "isms" as the way to salvation. Those who espouse the philosophy of change are much more deeply entrenched in positions of power and influence today than at any point in our history. The executive branch and the myriad of advisors, counselers, ministers and czars are more radical in their belief that America should change than ever before. This brings us closer to the cliff's edge than we've ever been. If we reach the tipping point and go over the edge, we will land on the hard surface of socialism. With the state of government and society in this day, what was once considered a potential danger has today become nothing less than looming catastrophe.
- There are three principle groups in this clip. One group represents the voice of change, wanting America to discard the current system and adopt a new system characterized by "isms" (socialism, statism, communism, fascism. . . its all fundamentally the same). He promises that change to a new system will solve everyone's problems because the state (government) will take care of everything.. Sound familiar??? A snake oil salesman if ever there was one. The second group is the American public. Each is concerned with his personal interests, but they really just want to live their lives and be happy. The third group is represented by John Q Public. This is the voice of understanding. The voice who knows what America is all about and the evil the "isms" represent. Which group do each of us fall into?
- The peddler wants speed and urgency in making changes. No time to read the documents (sound familiar???) The voice of reason wants things to slow down and the implicatons of change to be understood. How relevant is this in a day of thousand page bills that will fundamentally change the fabric of our nation, but there is no time to even read the contents.
- Many of those forming part of the general public don't want to give up their freedom, but don't realize what they are flirting with. They need someone to help them see things as they really are. If John Q. Public had not been there to help others awaken to the danger, the worst could have happened. If each of us understand the reality of dangers we are facing, are we continuing to sit on the park bench, or are we standing up and helping awaken others, before its too late?
Well, there's much more that can be derived from this highly relevant cartoon clip, but I'd rather hear thoughts from the rest of you. Please, please, please click on the comments link below and share your impressions. There are 260 people viewing this blog, let them know your thoughts and positions on this important matter.
Thanks,
Richard
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
An Un-Ending Chain
One of the least desireable aspects of my job is that it requires me to travel way too much. Don't get me wrong, I am very grateful to have employment in these troubled times that enables me to support my family and enjoy some of the comforts of life. But it would be nice to spend more time at home with Natalie and the kids.
Nevertheless, there are aspects of traveling that make airports, long flights, and lonely hotel rooms a little more tolerable. There is the benefit of piling up frequent flier miles and the award of free hotel nights to occassionally treat the family to a get away. The real perk, however, is that every now and then I get to go places that give me a much clearer perspective on life, and help me to better understand just how blessed we truly are in this day and age.
I never intended this blog to become a travel log of my business trips. But despite the past two posts, one about a visit to Valley Forge and the other describing my Constitution Day trip to Indepence Hall in Philadelphia, please indulge me just one more time to briefly recount three other recent trips that have had a profound impact on me.
Two weeks ago I had to travel to the Philippine Islands for meetings with prospective clients. While it is always interesting to travel internationally, there is one attraction in Manila that I've wanted to see, but did not get the chance in previous visits to the country. That is the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial. This cemetary is the burial site of 17,202 members of the U.S. military killed in action during World War II. There is also a monument at the site memorializing another 36,285 soldiers who were lost in the war, but whose remains were never recovered for burial.
I have had much to say in previous blog posts about the tremendous sacrifices made by the courageous men and women who rebelled from a tyrannical government to acheive our indepence. Their nobility will be diminished neither by time nor the apathy of successive generations. As much as we stand indebted to these patriots, we cannot fail to recognize those who have risen at their time in history to defend the liberty our founders passed to them. They too made the ultimate sacrifice to pass the torch of freedom they inherited on to their posterity. Just as the founders of our nation heroically fought to acheive the liberty to exercise our God given rights, countless men and women have lived and died since that time, who have similary sacrificed, not to acquire, but to preserve for future generations that liberty which they were given. These men and women forged their link in the chain of freedom. It is a link of strength, forged in the fires of their adversity, that will never break.
As I looked across the well manicured grounds of the cemetery, noting the gently curving rows of white marble crosses laid out so as to appear from a distance to form perfectly straight lines, I couldn't help but think of those who had tearfully waved goodbye to sons, husbands, and fathers as they departed to play their role in defending our liberty. I shuddered to think that every one of the seemingly endless crosses represented a goodbye that was destined to be the last in this lifetime. I'm sure the tears shed as loved ones deployed to their respective theaters of battle were laced with the fear that they may not return, but how many could truly fathom the intensity of the sacrifice they would be called upon to make? The 17,202 crosses on this plot of land, located on a far off island, represent not only the sacrifice of those who gave their life in battle, but also countless others whose sacrifices were made in the grief of loss that cannot be calculated.
As one of my traveling companions is a retired Major in the US Marine Corps, we were afforded the opportunity of having a tour of the grounds personally led by the cemetery's superintendent. He was able to give us background on some of those interred in this sacred spot, including several who were posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
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Nevertheless, there are aspects of traveling that make airports, long flights, and lonely hotel rooms a little more tolerable. There is the benefit of piling up frequent flier miles and the award of free hotel nights to occassionally treat the family to a get away. The real perk, however, is that every now and then I get to go places that give me a much clearer perspective on life, and help me to better understand just how blessed we truly are in this day and age.
I never intended this blog to become a travel log of my business trips. But despite the past two posts, one about a visit to Valley Forge and the other describing my Constitution Day trip to Indepence Hall in Philadelphia, please indulge me just one more time to briefly recount three other recent trips that have had a profound impact on me.
Two weeks ago I had to travel to the Philippine Islands for meetings with prospective clients. While it is always interesting to travel internationally, there is one attraction in Manila that I've wanted to see, but did not get the chance in previous visits to the country. That is the Manila American Cemetery and Memorial. This cemetary is the burial site of 17,202 members of the U.S. military killed in action during World War II. There is also a monument at the site memorializing another 36,285 soldiers who were lost in the war, but whose remains were never recovered for burial.
I have had much to say in previous blog posts about the tremendous sacrifices made by the courageous men and women who rebelled from a tyrannical government to acheive our indepence. Their nobility will be diminished neither by time nor the apathy of successive generations. As much as we stand indebted to these patriots, we cannot fail to recognize those who have risen at their time in history to defend the liberty our founders passed to them. They too made the ultimate sacrifice to pass the torch of freedom they inherited on to their posterity. Just as the founders of our nation heroically fought to acheive the liberty to exercise our God given rights, countless men and women have lived and died since that time, who have similary sacrificed, not to acquire, but to preserve for future generations that liberty which they were given. These men and women forged their link in the chain of freedom. It is a link of strength, forged in the fires of their adversity, that will never break.
As I looked across the well manicured grounds of the cemetery, noting the gently curving rows of white marble crosses laid out so as to appear from a distance to form perfectly straight lines, I couldn't help but think of those who had tearfully waved goodbye to sons, husbands, and fathers as they departed to play their role in defending our liberty. I shuddered to think that every one of the seemingly endless crosses represented a goodbye that was destined to be the last in this lifetime. I'm sure the tears shed as loved ones deployed to their respective theaters of battle were laced with the fear that they may not return, but how many could truly fathom the intensity of the sacrifice they would be called upon to make? The 17,202 crosses on this plot of land, located on a far off island, represent not only the sacrifice of those who gave their life in battle, but also countless others whose sacrifices were made in the grief of loss that cannot be calculated.
As one of my traveling companions is a retired Major in the US Marine Corps, we were afforded the opportunity of having a tour of the grounds personally led by the cemetery's superintendent. He was able to give us background on some of those interred in this sacred spot, including several who were posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor.
One view of the grave markers at the cemetery in Manila
Even more striking to me were the 36,285 names inscribed in the limestone memorial known as the "Tablets of the Missing". These are the names of those lost in the war, whose remains were never recovered. I can scarcely imagine the pain of not knowing where or how a loved one met their death, just the sting of them never returning. I pray there was consolation for those who sacrificed in this way in knowing that their loved ones died to preserve the freedom we all enjoy.
I think the most poignant moment of the day for me was when I read the inscription on one of the large limestone panels that captured the whole experience for me. The panel is shown in the picture below.
Inscription on wall reads:
LET US HERE HIGHLY RESOLVE
THAT THE CAUSE
FOR WHICH THEY DIED
SHALL LIVE
This then is our responsibility. It is now our turn to forge a link in the chain of freedom. As the men and women here memorialized passed the torch to us, we must consider how brightly the flame is burning while the torch rests in our hands.
A few days later it was my opportunity to travel to Hawaii and visit the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor. This was one of the most overpowering experiences I've had in quite some time. To consider that 1,177 sailors on this one ship lost their lives during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was breathtaking. Prior to boarding a ferry that takes visitors to the memorial built over the sunken wreckage, there is a video presentation shown that recounts the attack on December 7, 1941, shows news footage from the period, and describes the casualties incurred on that fateful day.
As I sat there in the dark theater with tears in my eyes, trying to imagine the sacrifices made on that Sunday morning, I was completely and utterly offended by a Japanese tourist, sitting in the seat next to me in the theater, with her head back, mouth open, loudly snoring within minutes after the lights in the theater were dimmed. Now I have no illusions that the fact of this woman being Japanese is in any way reflective of the Japanese people in general. As a matter of fact, I was actually pleased and impressed by the number of tourists from Japan visiting the site. But the irony was not lost, until when thinking about the experience later I realized that this woman was representative of many of us, even in the U.S.
There are threats to our freedom all around us, both at home and abroad. Men and women have died, and their loved ones have lived with grief and loss. Countless patriots have lived and died to forge their link in the chain of freedom. Yet today, while we have the responsibility of forging the steel that will link the freedom we've been given to the freedom that our children hope to enjoy, many of us are loudly snoring. We have either grown too comfortable and complacent in the freedom we've enjoyed for so long, or we naively believe that our freedom cannot be lost. We must awaken our senses to the peril we are facing today, or the chain could end with us.
A view of the USS Arizona from the air
USS Arizona Memorial taken from the ferry as we pulled away
The wall within the USS Arizona Memorial
that shows the names of those lost onboard the ship
Last week I found myself on yet another business trip. This time I was in New York City. As I often do while visiting New York, I took the opportunity to walk the promenade along New York Harbor and look across the water at the Statue of Liberty. It really is beautiful on a clear late afternoon to see the sun glisten off the statue. I've often sat on a bench at the water's edge and thought about the state of things in our world. But this time as I gazed at the most universally recognized symbol of our liberty, I thought of those who had sacrificed to preserve the liberty the statue represents. I found myself contemplating, as I have many times over the past year, about what little I've done to defend our priceless liberty and about how helpless I sometimes feel. Although I am optimistic and hopeful about what faithful people can do in the defense of freedom, I felt a tinge of guilt over how often I thoughtlessly go about my life and enjoy the freedom I've been given, while giving very little in return. I sincerely hope that I and my family can contribute to forging the link we must contribute to the chain of freedom, and that the chain can be an un-ending one.
Thanks,
Richard
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
A Sun Still Rising
In the summer of 1787, from May 25 to September 17, fifty-five men, representing 12 of the 13 American colonies (Rhode Island did not send delegates to the convention) met in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania to undertake one of the most significant tasks in history. Among these were many of the most learned and wise men of their time. Their names have echoed through the years as those most instrumental in sustaining freedom for the children of God, as they were responsible for designing a system of government in which the freedom of men could be protected and perpetuated. James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, Charles Pinckney and many others joined the venerable Benjamin Franklin and the revered George Washington to institute the will of God for a free people. Of these men President Gordon B. Hinckley stated, “what a singular and remarkable group they were. As I look across the world today, I search in vain for such a group as walked together across the stage of history when this nation was born. It is my conviction that while we have had a few great leaders since then, there has not been before or since so large a group of talented, able, dedicated and inherently wise and good men as those whom we call the Founding Fathers of this nation.”
As the group concluded their work in September of 1787, they had produced a singular work that remains without parallel in the annals of history. George Washington had been elected as the President of the Convention. As president he occupied a seat on the dais at the head of the room. The chair Washington used during the proceedings had a stiff, wooden back with an ornately carved replica of a half-crested sun at the top. At the conclusion of the months of sessions in the hot Pennsylvania summer, James Madison recorded the following statement made by Benjamin Franklin. Franklin is quoted as saying, “I have often looked at that behind the president without being able to tell whether it was rising or setting. But now I. . . know that it is a rising sun.”
This is a picture of the actual chair used by George Washington during the Constitutional Convention during the summer of 1787. The engraved half-sun in the center inspired Benjamin Franklin's famous quote mentioned above. This chair still occupies its rightful place on the dais at Independence Hall.
All of these thoughts were with me as I spent my few moments in the footsteps of these great men in Independence Hall. As the tour guide droned on through her scripted presentation, I looked around the room and tried to imagine Benjamin Franklin sitting with the Pennsylvania delegation, his foot up on a chair to relieve his painful gout, and his signature walking stick lying on the table in front of him. I tried to imagine George Washington sitting beneath the carved sun in his chair on the dais, quietly presiding over the proceedings. I imagined James Madison sitting at the front intently taking notes of the debate, and the various delegates making points and counter points about the many facets of governing a free land.
Then, inevitably, I began to consider the state of our nation today. I wondered if there had been prior moments in our history as rife with conflict and controversy as we are now experiencing. Undoubtedly men have always disagreed. Even the best intended men and women haven’t seen eye-to-eye on all matters. It was so even amongst these great men in 1787. But we’re now facing calamity that is different than petty bickering and conflicting ideas. We are now seeing a face off of ideologies of a magnitude not seen among a free people, at least not in our lifetime, or that of our parents, grandparents, and great grandparents. It is the forces of freedom arrayed against the forces of tyranny. We have faced terrible threats from without and emerged victorious, but never before have we encountered such massive threats from within. Many today consider this to be a gross overstatement and irresponsible exaggeration. Certainly those who propose a new way aren’t enemies of freedom! Certainly those who want progress, fairness, and greater involvement of government in the lives of citizens are not pro-tyranny! Its reported frequently in the media that these claims are nothing more than racist tendencies coming to the surface, or an attempt to smear and destroy those with whom we don’t agree. History will ultimately decide the issue, but I, for one, don’t want to wait for history to issue its verdict. Especially since that verdict could be in the form of freedom lost.
The heart of the struggle we are facing today is whether the constitutional government that was established 222 years ago this past week was divinely inspired. If it was at that time, then so it is today. If the constitution of the United States of America represents the form of government God intended for His children, and if He intended man to be free, then so it is today. There are those among us who believe that the constitution of our land is outdated. That it no longer applies to a post-modern world that has moved beyond the local concerns of a largely agrarian society. There are also those who believe that the founding fathers of our nation were racist white elitists who acted in their best interest and could not possibly understand the world we live in today. These two groups of people believe we need to evolve as a nation. They believe that we must progress. That America is due for a makeover. Our president ran on a platform of change. He stated shortly before his inauguration that he was going to “fundamentally transform” America. Several weeks ago I sat in a rental car, driving to a meeting somewhere (sometimes I lose track of where I’m at) in utter disbelief as I heard on the radio that we were witnessing the emergence of the founding fathers of a new America.
I stated earlier that I believe the founding fathers, our true founding fathers- not those who try to vainly take the title upon themselves- would be proud of America as they considered all that America has stood for and accomplished. But as I stood on 9/17 in Independence Hall, I couldn’t help but wonder what they would think of America today. How would these men feel about the growth of government into so many facets of our lives? These men feared that if government became too large it would begin to erode the freedoms of the citizenry. They had endured the abuses of an encroaching British government and knew what tyranny looked like and felt like. George Washington had said, “Government is not reason, it is not eloquence, it is force; like fire, a troublesome servant and a fearful master. Never for a moment should it be left to irresponsible action”. What would he and the other founders think as they observe a formerly troublesome servant became a more and more powerful master of the people?
I believe we are at a crossroad as a free nation. In one direction we will preserve what our founders gave us. In the other direction there will be the founding of a new America. If we choose wisely, and follow the direction of our creator, the sun Benjamin Franklin determined to be rising will reach its zenith and we will enjoy enduring freedom. If we choose the other direction, we must be prepared to accept what the sun will reveal on a new day in a “new” America. How brightly does the sun shine on a people bereft of the freedom they squandered? History has answered that question time after time, yet so many refuse to acknowledge and understand.
I walked out of Independence Hall last week grateful for inspired men and for God-given freedoms that I far too often take for granted. I felt humbled at the sacrifices of so many in my behalf. I felt blessed to live in a nation with a rich heritage and a divine destiny. And I felt a renewed sense of urgency to stand up in defense of the freedoms with which we are blessed.
Richard
As the group concluded their work in September of 1787, they had produced a singular work that remains without parallel in the annals of history. George Washington had been elected as the President of the Convention. As president he occupied a seat on the dais at the head of the room. The chair Washington used during the proceedings had a stiff, wooden back with an ornately carved replica of a half-crested sun at the top. At the conclusion of the months of sessions in the hot Pennsylvania summer, James Madison recorded the following statement made by Benjamin Franklin. Franklin is quoted as saying, “I have often looked at that behind the president without being able to tell whether it was rising or setting. But now I. . . know that it is a rising sun.”
It was my opportunity on September, 17th of this year (Constitution Day), exactly 222 years from the date on which these men committed the product of their labors to mankind, to stand in that room in Independence Hall and reflect on what they had done. It was the culmination of countless sacrifices made during a bloody but providential revolution, and a heritage left to future generations that cannot be over-esteemed. It was indeed a sun just beginning to rise on the world. Consider what has occurred since that time. The rest of the world took notice, and freedom has come to many other nations as they’ve sought to emulate the American model. A climate was created in which religious freedom was respected, at least to the degree in which a restoration of God’s church could occur. From this land of freedom the Gospel has been spread across the globe. The spark of freedom that was ignited that day has fanned into a flame. Only one generation later slavery, one of the greatest scourges in all of history, was abolished. In the next generation universal suffrage was achieved. A system of free economics led to the greatest accumulation of wealth in all of history. Poverty, as known throughout the millennia of history preceding the formation of our nation, and as still existent in many parts of the world today, is virtually unknown in our land. Although the poor and hungry can still be found in America, even the most destitute among us enjoy a quality of living and material possessions far beyond the meager subsistence a vast majority of human beings on this earth have endured. Civil rights have gained greater expression in this land, and have been translated into legally protected freedoms moreso than in any society. Mankind has found the freedom of expression, the freedom to pursue happiness, the freedom to succeed, and the freedom to fail in this land to a degree that is unmatched by any other nation or kingdom. It is all due to that incredible event 222 years ago in Philadelphia.
A depiction of the delegates to the Constitutional Convention signing the document.
A photo of the actual interior of Independence Hall
Over the many years since the signing of the Constitution men have used their freedom to abuse their freedom. Our history has not been without trouble, hardship, suffering, or pain. But these abuses have not been because of the system established by these men so many years ago, they have been due to the spite of men for the system, and the subordination of this system to mankind’s selfishness. We have endured these detractors and risen above them. Despite dark moments in the history of America, our nation has lived up to its divine calling. America has been a force for good in the world. I’m confident that as our founding fathers contemplate what America has stood for, and what it has accomplished in the two centuries since they stood together in Philadelphia, they would be proud. They would conclude that the sun continues to rise on a bright day of freedom and opportunity.
All of these thoughts were with me as I spent my few moments in the footsteps of these great men in Independence Hall. As the tour guide droned on through her scripted presentation, I looked around the room and tried to imagine Benjamin Franklin sitting with the Pennsylvania delegation, his foot up on a chair to relieve his painful gout, and his signature walking stick lying on the table in front of him. I tried to imagine George Washington sitting beneath the carved sun in his chair on the dais, quietly presiding over the proceedings. I imagined James Madison sitting at the front intently taking notes of the debate, and the various delegates making points and counter points about the many facets of governing a free land.
Then, inevitably, I began to consider the state of our nation today. I wondered if there had been prior moments in our history as rife with conflict and controversy as we are now experiencing. Undoubtedly men have always disagreed. Even the best intended men and women haven’t seen eye-to-eye on all matters. It was so even amongst these great men in 1787. But we’re now facing calamity that is different than petty bickering and conflicting ideas. We are now seeing a face off of ideologies of a magnitude not seen among a free people, at least not in our lifetime, or that of our parents, grandparents, and great grandparents. It is the forces of freedom arrayed against the forces of tyranny. We have faced terrible threats from without and emerged victorious, but never before have we encountered such massive threats from within. Many today consider this to be a gross overstatement and irresponsible exaggeration. Certainly those who propose a new way aren’t enemies of freedom! Certainly those who want progress, fairness, and greater involvement of government in the lives of citizens are not pro-tyranny! Its reported frequently in the media that these claims are nothing more than racist tendencies coming to the surface, or an attempt to smear and destroy those with whom we don’t agree. History will ultimately decide the issue, but I, for one, don’t want to wait for history to issue its verdict. Especially since that verdict could be in the form of freedom lost.
The heart of the struggle we are facing today is whether the constitutional government that was established 222 years ago this past week was divinely inspired. If it was at that time, then so it is today. If the constitution of the United States of America represents the form of government God intended for His children, and if He intended man to be free, then so it is today. There are those among us who believe that the constitution of our land is outdated. That it no longer applies to a post-modern world that has moved beyond the local concerns of a largely agrarian society. There are also those who believe that the founding fathers of our nation were racist white elitists who acted in their best interest and could not possibly understand the world we live in today. These two groups of people believe we need to evolve as a nation. They believe that we must progress. That America is due for a makeover. Our president ran on a platform of change. He stated shortly before his inauguration that he was going to “fundamentally transform” America. Several weeks ago I sat in a rental car, driving to a meeting somewhere (sometimes I lose track of where I’m at) in utter disbelief as I heard on the radio that we were witnessing the emergence of the founding fathers of a new America.
I stated earlier that I believe the founding fathers, our true founding fathers- not those who try to vainly take the title upon themselves- would be proud of America as they considered all that America has stood for and accomplished. But as I stood on 9/17 in Independence Hall, I couldn’t help but wonder what they would think of America today. How would these men feel about the growth of government into so many facets of our lives? These men feared that if government became too large it would begin to erode the freedoms of the citizenry. They had endured the abuses of an encroaching British government and knew what tyranny looked like and felt like. George Washington had said, “Government is not reason, it is not eloquence, it is force; like fire, a troublesome servant and a fearful master. Never for a moment should it be left to irresponsible action”. What would he and the other founders think as they observe a formerly troublesome servant became a more and more powerful master of the people?
I believe we are at a crossroad as a free nation. In one direction we will preserve what our founders gave us. In the other direction there will be the founding of a new America. If we choose wisely, and follow the direction of our creator, the sun Benjamin Franklin determined to be rising will reach its zenith and we will enjoy enduring freedom. If we choose the other direction, we must be prepared to accept what the sun will reveal on a new day in a “new” America. How brightly does the sun shine on a people bereft of the freedom they squandered? History has answered that question time after time, yet so many refuse to acknowledge and understand.
I walked out of Independence Hall last week grateful for inspired men and for God-given freedoms that I far too often take for granted. I felt humbled at the sacrifices of so many in my behalf. I felt blessed to live in a nation with a rich heritage and a divine destiny. And I felt a renewed sense of urgency to stand up in defense of the freedoms with which we are blessed.
Richard
Friday, September 18, 2009
A Very Special Day
Yesterday was a unique day for me. I found myself on another in a seemingly endless string of business trips. I was away from my family, yet again, missing Natalie and the kids and wishing I was back home with them. This time I was in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
The meetings had been long and tedious, just as they always are. But this trip was shaping up to be different from the others for a few different reasons. First, because I was in South East Pennsylvania. Second, because the date was September 17th. And third, because I finished meetings the night before, but my flight home wasn’t scheduled to leave until after 5:00 that afternoon from Philadelphia.
9/17 is a special day. On September 17, 1787 fifty-five delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document that created the greatest form of government ever devised for man. I can’t think of a better place to be on Constitution Day than in Philadelphia, where the Constitution became a reality, made ready for ratification by the colonies. The actual location of one of the most important events in all of history.
But before I get to that, there was another reason this day was so special. Conveniently located between Allentown and Philadelphia is Valley Forge.
There are few places on earth that carry as much significance as this area in Southern Pennsylvania. The historical significance of Valley Forge is unquestionable, but the site is special not just because it was the location that Washington’s army encamped during the winter of 1777-78. The true significance of Valley Forge is the tremendous price that was paid there for the freedom we enjoy.
Washington’s army moved into the Valley Forge area in December of 1777 with over 12,000 men. The army was already sorely destitute of supplies, but this was only a shadow of the challenges that the troops would face in the coming months. In freezing temperatures, Washington could not secure food or clothing for the troops, and the Continental Congress was either unwilling, or unable to assist. The soldiers were instructed to build small 11 x 7 ft log huts with nothing but a dirt floor, bunk beds and a single fireplace.
The meetings had been long and tedious, just as they always are. But this trip was shaping up to be different from the others for a few different reasons. First, because I was in South East Pennsylvania. Second, because the date was September 17th. And third, because I finished meetings the night before, but my flight home wasn’t scheduled to leave until after 5:00 that afternoon from Philadelphia.
9/17 is a special day. On September 17, 1787 fifty-five delegates to the Constitutional Convention signed the document that created the greatest form of government ever devised for man. I can’t think of a better place to be on Constitution Day than in Philadelphia, where the Constitution became a reality, made ready for ratification by the colonies. The actual location of one of the most important events in all of history.
But before I get to that, there was another reason this day was so special. Conveniently located between Allentown and Philadelphia is Valley Forge.
There are few places on earth that carry as much significance as this area in Southern Pennsylvania. The historical significance of Valley Forge is unquestionable, but the site is special not just because it was the location that Washington’s army encamped during the winter of 1777-78. The true significance of Valley Forge is the tremendous price that was paid there for the freedom we enjoy.
Washington’s army moved into the Valley Forge area in December of 1777 with over 12,000 men. The army was already sorely destitute of supplies, but this was only a shadow of the challenges that the troops would face in the coming months. In freezing temperatures, Washington could not secure food or clothing for the troops, and the Continental Congress was either unwilling, or unable to assist. The soldiers were instructed to build small 11 x 7 ft log huts with nothing but a dirt floor, bunk beds and a single fireplace.
Exterior view of troop quarters.
Interior view of troop quarters from the front door. Twelve men would share this living space for the winter months.
Conditions were so bad during the stay in Valley Forge that over 2,000 men died from starvation, freezing and sickness. Over 4,000 men were admitted to makeshift hospitals were conditions were worse off than in the general living quarters. Many men stayed at their posts despite debilitating sickness just to avoid being sent to the hospitals.
The state of affairs in Valley Forge became so bad that General Washington stated at one point that "that unless some great and capital change suddenly takes place... this Army must inevitably... starve, dissolve, or disperse, in order to obtain subsistence in the best manner they can." If the army had disbanded, the travails of Valley Forge would have ended the revolution.
The state of affairs in Valley Forge became so bad that General Washington stated at one point that "that unless some great and capital change suddenly takes place... this Army must inevitably... starve, dissolve, or disperse, in order to obtain subsistence in the best manner they can." If the army had disbanded, the travails of Valley Forge would have ended the revolution.
General Washington and his troops at Valley Forge
It was overcast and raining yesterday as I walked through the replicas of the cabins built to house the soldiers. I couldn’t help but think that the chilly, wet day I was experiencing was only the slightest taste of what those men and women experienced, but it still seemed somehow appropriate that the weather was dark, gray, and wet.
The green open areas and the dense woodlands around the area were breathtakingly beautiful. It seemed so ironic that an area of such beauty was the site of such suffering. I saw about a dozen white-tailed deer wandering through the area, along with scores of Canadian Geese and even a badger. I couldn’t help but think what the troops would have given for the ability to hunt for fresh meat at the time, but harsh weather and the large number of mouths made game scarce and insufficient.
My emotions were close to the surface during my visit. Natalie actually called on the cell phone while I was there, but I had to keep the conversation short because I was overwhelmed with so many different thoughts and feelings. It was clear to me that I was walking on hallowed ground, made sacred by the sacrifice offered by so many. It was very similar to how I felt when I stood several years ago in the upper room of the Carthage Jail. I believe there is something unique and special about those places where great sacrifices were made for the good of mankind. In my mind, Valley Forge is, without a doubt, one of these places.
General Washington's quarters at Valley Forge. The interior is much smaller than it looks. This space was shared with over 25 staff members. It has three very small bedrooms and a loft. General Washington's office was on the ground floor and had a window that overlooked some of the encampment. From here he wrote in April of 1787 "To see the men without clothes to cover their nakedness, without blankets to lie upon, without shoes...without a house or hut to cover them until those could be built, and submitting without a murmur, is a proof of patience and obedience which, in my opinion, can scarcely be paralleled."
Throughout the time I spent in the Valley Forge area, I couldn’t escape thinking about the responsibility we have to honor the great sacrifices the location represented. I kept trying to figure out what I could do to honor their sacrifice, show my gratitude, and make my modest contribution to help cover freedom’s high price. The little I do so infrequently and so ineffectively to defend freedom never seemed more inadequate. So many in our day seem willing to barter the freedom purchased for us that winter with the lives of over 2,000 men, and the bitter suffering of thousands of others. What would those men and women think if they were able to see what is going on in our country today, and how we are trifling with our liberty? If we lose the freedom they fought for, starved for, froze for, suffered for, and died for, will we be able to look them in the eyes when we pass through the veil? It will depend on whether we stood up when we could, and represented what we should.
With all my heart I agree with the statement made by George Washington that is inscribed in the impressive National Memorial Arch located in the park.
"Naked and starving as they are
We cannot enough admire
The incomparable Patience and Fidelity
of the Soldiery"
-- George Washington
National Memorial Arch at Valley Forge Natl Park
In my next posting I will share some of the pictures and thoughts from my visit to Independence Hall on Constitution day to see the location of the signing of the document.
Thanks,
Richard
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
A Moment To Catch My Breath
Several weeks have now passed since I've put thoughts down in this blog. I have every intention of writing at least every couple of days, but you know how it goes with the best laid intentions. . .
My work travel schedule has been a nightmare, and I've been so consumed with that pesky day job that the things I enjoy most and consider most important, like writing about our freedom, have had to take a back seat. If I just didn't have to attend to all those little annoyances like paying the mortgage and feeding the family, perhaps I could focus more on what I want. Here's a thought, maybe the government could step in and take care of those things for me! Just think, if I couldn't pay my mortgage, maybe the government could just force the bank to change the terms of my loan and keep me in my house. It doesn't seem fair that other people can stay in their homes, just because they choose to work for their living. Then I could get foodstamps to cover the grocery bill, medicaid to cover our healthcare (until we get a universal government option), and then I could file for an unemployment check to pay for the remaining necessities that I am entitled to, like sattelite TV, a cell phone for each family member, and, of course, high-speed internet service so I can do my blogging! Its the new American Dream. . .
Okay, I'm obviously being sarcastic, but how sad that there are so many who agree with such an irresponsible and unfortunate perspective on life.
While I've been on the road so much recently, there has been a lot bouncing around in my little pea brain. There are a number of blog posts I have up there waiting to make it on to the page. Airplane reading always tends to send my brain into hyperdrive and I end up with so many thoughts I want to put down on paper, but too seldom find the time to actually do it. I'll get to them all eventually. . . I hope.
But before I subject you all to a massive brain dump, I thought I'd use this post to share a few of the sources that have been causing my neurons to fire.
Over the past year I have been working on building a "Freedom Library". This is a collection of books that outline some of the very best information, and provide clear thinking on the topics of freedom, liberty, and the destiny of our nation. I've been truly inspired as I've sought out these books and feel blessed that I've been able to be taught by brilliant men and women who have shared their knowledge and insights through their writing.
In the tradition of David Letterman, and because I usually find time to blog in late night hours, here's my Late Night Top Ten List of what I consider to be the best books in my freedom library.
#10- Stand Fast By Our Constitution by J. Reuben Clark.
In addition to being an apostle and member of the first presidency, J. Reuben Clark served as under-secretary of state and U.S. Ambassador to Mexico. Few men in the past century have been more knowledgable and passionat about our constitution. This book gives insight into a brilliant mind that understands the freedoms we enjoy, and clearly sees the threats to our way of life. He provides particular insight into foreign policy imperatives and pitfalls.
This book has taken on a new life over the past couple of years as more people have become interested in our national heritage. After years of research and study of the founding of our nation and our constitution, Skousen has distilled the fundamentals upon which our nation was founded down to 28 key principles. Understanding these principles gives tremendous insight into what has made America the greatest nation in history.
available for just $5 per copy, contact me directly if you're interested
This book is much newer, so deals with contemporary issues in the news over the past year. The greatest benefit of this book, in my opinion, is how clearly it draws a line between the right and left on the modern political spectrum. If you want to have a clearer picture of what it means to be conservative and what it means to be liberal, this book is one to read. Levin outlines the difference between the statist view, those who desire greater government involvement in our lives, and those who believe government should maintain a limited role as envisioned by our founding fathers. available on amazon.com starting at $15.00
#6- Title of Liberty compiled by Mark A. Benson.
All of the books on this list give great insight into the threats facing our nation, but this book does it in a way that few others do, because it views these threats through the lens of events unfolding around us today. Beck calls it a case against an out of control government, and that is precisely what it is. If you have had a feeling that what is going on in our country today just doesn't feel right, but you haven't been able to put your thumb on exactly why, or haven't been able to explain your misgivings well enough to explain out loud, this book helps pull it all together, using current events to tell the story. I can't even count the number of times while reading this book I had to set it down just to think for a minute about the implications of what I was reading. Its a quick read, but leaves you pondering quite a bit. available on amazon.com starting at $6.59
#4- The Great Prologue by Mark E. Peterson.
Elder Peterson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has provided one of the best sources to view the destiny of America through past, present, and future events. As Latter Day Saints we know that America has a special destiny in God's plan, but seldom do we see it laid out so comprehensively in such a small book. It doesn't take long to read this book, but you will come away with a much deeper sense of why America is so special, and why we must give everything we have to preserve the freedom on this land. available on amazon.com starting at $2.99 used and $9.99 new
This book covers much of the same material as The 5,000 Year Leap, but is much more comprehensive. I found this book fascinating not only to read, but a great reference source when I have questions about the constitution. Skousen gives a very good condensed history of the revolution, the founding of the nation, our founding fathers, and the basic ideas and philosophies that gave rise to our constititution. It also provides a good introduction and overview of economics and the importance of a free market system. It then goes through every article and principle in the constitution, and explains what they mean.
My work travel schedule has been a nightmare, and I've been so consumed with that pesky day job that the things I enjoy most and consider most important, like writing about our freedom, have had to take a back seat. If I just didn't have to attend to all those little annoyances like paying the mortgage and feeding the family, perhaps I could focus more on what I want. Here's a thought, maybe the government could step in and take care of those things for me! Just think, if I couldn't pay my mortgage, maybe the government could just force the bank to change the terms of my loan and keep me in my house. It doesn't seem fair that other people can stay in their homes, just because they choose to work for their living. Then I could get foodstamps to cover the grocery bill, medicaid to cover our healthcare (until we get a universal government option), and then I could file for an unemployment check to pay for the remaining necessities that I am entitled to, like sattelite TV, a cell phone for each family member, and, of course, high-speed internet service so I can do my blogging! Its the new American Dream. . .
Okay, I'm obviously being sarcastic, but how sad that there are so many who agree with such an irresponsible and unfortunate perspective on life.
While I've been on the road so much recently, there has been a lot bouncing around in my little pea brain. There are a number of blog posts I have up there waiting to make it on to the page. Airplane reading always tends to send my brain into hyperdrive and I end up with so many thoughts I want to put down on paper, but too seldom find the time to actually do it. I'll get to them all eventually. . . I hope.
But before I subject you all to a massive brain dump, I thought I'd use this post to share a few of the sources that have been causing my neurons to fire.
Over the past year I have been working on building a "Freedom Library". This is a collection of books that outline some of the very best information, and provide clear thinking on the topics of freedom, liberty, and the destiny of our nation. I've been truly inspired as I've sought out these books and feel blessed that I've been able to be taught by brilliant men and women who have shared their knowledge and insights through their writing.
In the tradition of David Letterman, and because I usually find time to blog in late night hours, here's my Late Night Top Ten List of what I consider to be the best books in my freedom library.
#10- Stand Fast By Our Constitution by J. Reuben Clark.
In addition to being an apostle and member of the first presidency, J. Reuben Clark served as under-secretary of state and U.S. Ambassador to Mexico. Few men in the past century have been more knowledgable and passionat about our constitution. This book gives insight into a brilliant mind that understands the freedoms we enjoy, and clearly sees the threats to our way of life. He provides particular insight into foreign policy imperatives and pitfalls.
available at amazon.com starting at $14.98
#9- The 5,ooo Year Leap by W. Cleon Skousen.
This book has taken on a new life over the past couple of years as more people have become interested in our national heritage. After years of research and study of the founding of our nation and our constitution, Skousen has distilled the fundamentals upon which our nation was founded down to 28 key principles. Understanding these principles gives tremendous insight into what has made America the greatest nation in history.available for just $5 per copy, contact me directly if you're interested
#8- Liberal Fascism by Jonah Goldberg.
This is not the easiest read on the list, but is 
fascinating in its ability to tell the story of progressivism in America. The general assertion made in this book is that fascism, often taught as being the far right end of the political spectrum, is really a direct product of the left. Goldberg chronicles the most infamous fascist governments in modern history, including Mussolini and Hitler, and then shows how the roots of these movements are eerily similar in nature to the fundamentals of progressivism in early 20th century America. Since many on the left today, including President Obama, have picked up the torch of Teddy Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, FDR and other past progressive leaders, it is important to understand the premise of progressive philosophy and view what is inevitably found at the end of the progressive road. This is one of the books that really got me concerned with current trends and incited me to dig deeper into our founding principles, and how severly the nation is departing from these fundamentals. available on amazon.com starting at $11.00
fascinating in its ability to tell the story of progressivism in America. The general assertion made in this book is that fascism, often taught as being the far right end of the political spectrum, is really a direct product of the left. Goldberg chronicles the most infamous fascist governments in modern history, including Mussolini and Hitler, and then shows how the roots of these movements are eerily similar in nature to the fundamentals of progressivism in early 20th century America. Since many on the left today, including President Obama, have picked up the torch of Teddy Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, FDR and other past progressive leaders, it is important to understand the premise of progressive philosophy and view what is inevitably found at the end of the progressive road. This is one of the books that really got me concerned with current trends and incited me to dig deeper into our founding principles, and how severly the nation is departing from these fundamentals. available on amazon.com starting at $11.00#7- Liberty and Tyranny by Mark Levin.
This book is much newer, so deals with contemporary issues in the news over the past year. The greatest benefit of this book, in my opinion, is how clearly it draws a line between the right and left on the modern political spectrum. If you want to have a clearer picture of what it means to be conservative and what it means to be liberal, this book is one to read. Levin outlines the difference between the statist view, those who desire greater government involvement in our lives, and those who believe government should maintain a limited role as envisioned by our founding fathers. available on amazon.com starting at $15.00#6- Title of Liberty compiled by Mark A. Benson.
This book is a compilation of addresses given by Elder Ezra Taft Benson, put together by his son Mark. Ezra Taft Benson has been perhaps the most ardent, articulate, and enduring defender of our nation, and has raised the most urgent voice of warning about the threats to our freedom in the past century. Each individual address is inspiring in its own right. Having them pulled together to build upon one another paints an extraordinary picture.
available used on amazon.com starting at $22.99
#5- Common Sense by Glenn Beck.
All of the books on this list give great insight into the threats facing our nation, but this book does it in a way that few others do, because it views these threats through the lens of events unfolding around us today. Beck calls it a case against an out of control government, and that is precisely what it is. If you have had a feeling that what is going on in our country today just doesn't feel right, but you haven't been able to put your thumb on exactly why, or haven't been able to explain your misgivings well enough to explain out loud, this book helps pull it all together, using current events to tell the story. I can't even count the number of times while reading this book I had to set it down just to think for a minute about the implications of what I was reading. Its a quick read, but leaves you pondering quite a bit. available on amazon.com starting at $6.59#4- The Great Prologue by Mark E. Peterson.
Elder Peterson of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles has provided one of the best sources to view the destiny of America through past, present, and future events. As Latter Day Saints we know that America has a special destiny in God's plan, but seldom do we see it laid out so comprehensively in such a small book. It doesn't take long to read this book, but you will come away with a much deeper sense of why America is so special, and why we must give everything we have to preserve the freedom on this land. available on amazon.com starting at $2.99 used and $9.99 new#3- The Making Of America by W. Cleon Skousen.
This book covers much of the same material as The 5,000 Year Leap, but is much more comprehensive. I found this book fascinating not only to read, but a great reference source when I have questions about the constitution. Skousen gives a very good condensed history of the revolution, the founding of the nation, our founding fathers, and the basic ideas and philosophies that gave rise to our constititution. It also provides a good introduction and overview of economics and the importance of a free market system. It then goes through every article and principle in the constitution, and explains what they mean.#2- This Nation Shall Endure by Ezra Taft Benson.
I found this book to be tremendous. Again, it is not a long book, so can be read and digested without committing a lot of time. In this book Elder Benson lays out everything I have been thinking about and coming to beleive in a concise and articulate way. I have read no other book that is as good as this one in outlining the greatness of our country, the risks facing our country, and what must be done to preserve our nation and our liberty. The book was published in 1977, but every thing in the book is as relevant as if it were published last week. I am astounded at how spot on Elder Benson was about the dangers our nation faces and about what is happening in our country. If it was happening then, imagine how much larger these threats loom after three more decades of Satan's influence and societal deterioration. If you want to really get mentally into the struggle for freedom, this is the book to read.
available on amazon.com used starting at $44.99
#1- Prophets, Principles, and National Survival compiled by Jerrald L. Newquist.
This 
book is a compilation of statements and writings of latter day prophets and apostles regarding our nation, our freedoms, our constitution, and our responsibility to preserve our liberty. The book was published originally in 1964, so there aren't as many quotes from today's church leadership, but what is included from church leaders between 1830 and 1964 is breathtaking. After reading this book, there is no room left for doubt regarding the relationship between the Gospel and America as a land of liberty. This book contains the words of the prophets, we need to read and give heed. I have said, and continue to believe, that this book is the most important reading that members of the church can do, outside of the standard works and the words of the living prophets in the Ensign. I hope everyone will get a hold of this book and spend some time reading, pondering, and praying about the words of our latter day prophets and apostles.
book is a compilation of statements and writings of latter day prophets and apostles regarding our nation, our freedoms, our constitution, and our responsibility to preserve our liberty. The book was published originally in 1964, so there aren't as many quotes from today's church leadership, but what is included from church leaders between 1830 and 1964 is breathtaking. After reading this book, there is no room left for doubt regarding the relationship between the Gospel and America as a land of liberty. This book contains the words of the prophets, we need to read and give heed. I have said, and continue to believe, that this book is the most important reading that members of the church can do, outside of the standard works and the words of the living prophets in the Ensign. I hope everyone will get a hold of this book and spend some time reading, pondering, and praying about the words of our latter day prophets and apostles.Other titles from my freedom library that are worth reading include, in no particular order:
The Great and Abominable Church of the Devil by H. Verlan Andersen
The Red Carpet by Ezra Taft Benson
The Real George Washington by The National Center for Constitutional Studies,
Liberal Fascism by Jonah Goldberg
Reagan Man of Principle by John Harmer
His Excellency George Washington by Joseph J. Ellis
None Dare Call It Conspiracy by Gary Allen
Godless: The Church of Liberalism by Anne Coulter
Culture Warrior by Bill O'Reilly
An Inconvenient Book by Glenn Beck
The Naked Communist by W. Cleon Skousen
The Real America by Glenn Beck
Let Freedom Ring by Sean Hannity
So there you go. These are the books that have consumed me over the past year or two. I know I've missed many. In fact, I've only scratched the surface. I haven't even touched on such important works as The Federalist Papers, the Constitution itself, the Declaration of Independence, The Law by Bastiat, and many others. Of course, regardless of any list made, no other book is as essential to understanding our nation, our freedoms, and the threats to liberty than the Book of Mormon. I've certainly gained a whole new perspective for what is taught in that most important of all books.
Now I'd love to hear what you think of these books, and what other books you have read that I need to get a hold of. Please respond and let us all know.
Thanks,
Richard
Thursday, August 13, 2009
America IS Changing
The country we live in is changing. We were each born into a world in which America was synonymous with hope, freedom, and opportunity. America has been a beacon of freedom for over two centuries, and has been a greater force for good than any other nation that has ever existed. There is no claim that America has been perfect. It is a union of imperfect people. The plight of the early saints is just one example of imperfections in the history of our land. Nevertheless, America has been a light in a dark world since it first changed the course of human history by declaring independence, based upon the idea of human rights being a gift from God to man. This changed the paradigm of history. No longer did the so called “divine rights of kings” shape the political destiny of men. Rule by the elite was vanquished and government was established by the people, for the people and of the people. This was according to God’s divine plan.
It was no accident that a nation of political and religious freedom was established at the precise moment in history in which it was needed to prepare an apostate world for the light of the Gospel, soon to be restored. The founding of our nation was the great prologue to the establishment of God’s kingdom on Earth. There is abundant witness from ancient and modern prophets alike that the establishment of this nation was done under divine inspiration. The men who were chosen to serve as founding fathers of our republic were choice spirits raised up by God to do a particular work, and they were led in their efforts to produce a miracle never before experienced in the history of our planet. The Constitution these men created, under the guidance of divine providence, represents the greatest form of government ever devised for man. It is so because it is based on principles delivered to them by God.
It is precisely because the founding of our nation was based upon inspired principles that America has overcome many of her imperfections and been an unparalleled force for good in our world.
But the country we live in is changing. The fundamental principles that have characterized the strength of our nation are being eroded at every turn. This erosion has been epidemic in our society for the past several decades. The America that emerged from World War II is only vaguely reminiscent of the America our children are being born into today. Despite the efforts of many so-called “progressives” in the early 20th century, America survived the Great Depression. The American people rejected a concerted move toward collectivized government that was thrust upon them by Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and others. All these challenges have been overcome because the core of the American way of life remained rooted on fundamental principles that were revealed by God to see us through troubled times. America has always been a country founded upon God. Christian values have served as our moral compass. Decency and civility have been considered virtuous, and the idea of selflessness and sacrifice were ingrained in our citizenry. Hard work, honesty, and personal accountability were the price of achieving the American dream. Were it not so, the land of liberty would have ceased to exist long-ago, for God has said concerning this land that "it is a land of promise; and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall serve God, or they shall be swept off when the fulness of his wrath shall come upon them. And the fulness of his wrath cometh upon them when they are ripened in iniquity." (Ether 2:9)
But the country we live in is changing. The 1960’s represented an epic shift in the fabric of our society. We have seen large portions of our society in a moral tailspin for the past 50 years. Whereas God had represented the basis of our society ever since it was founded under His divine inspiration, there has been an organized move to remove him from the public discourse. The words “In God We Trust” have been eschewed by those claiming to stand in defense of the Constitution, that He, Himself inspired. Highly funded and well-organized groups have systematically endeavored to remove any reference to divinity from the public square, using a variety of nefarious tactics. The courts have too often been complicit in this effort through activist legislation and liberal interpretation of the words of our Founding Fathers.
Decency in our society has dissolved into a never-ending parade of filthy images in magazines, on television, and in the movies. Video games celebrate crime, death and destruction, striving for more and more realism in the debauchery experienced vicariously on the screen. Pornography has become so available and abundant that it has become difficult to avoid even unintentional, casual exposure, which far too often leads to piqued interest and dangerous addiction.
The value of a hard day’s work has been replaced, to an alarming degree, with a sense of entitlement. Rather than working to enjoy the fruits of honest labor, far too many look for the government to provide them what they did not earn, yet still feel entitled to receive. The law of the harvest is replaced with a compulsion for people to reap where they did not sow. Selflessness is consequently subdued by the selfish impulse to take from others what they have rightly earned, under the guise of fairness and equal distribution.
The very sanctity of life is being undermined, cloaked in a thin disguise of expressing freedom of choice. How ironic that many of those so willing to impugn individual agency at almost every turn, insist that agency be preserved when it comes to ending the lives of the unborn. Contraception and abortion are inculcated as alternatives to chastity and family units are being subordinated to a myriad of public programs. Truly it does not take a village to raise our children, it takes a stable family.
The law delivered to Moses on Sinai began as the Ten Commandments, but then became the ten suggestions, then the ten inconveniences, and finally the ten relics of an outdated moral ideology.
Perhaps none have expressed the spiral of American society over the past decades as succinctly as eloquently, nor as alarmingly as President Gordon B. Hinkley.
"We, as a people and a nation have increasingly neglected and abandoned time-honored virtues that have been proven through the centuries to keep human beings individually, and therefore collectively, strong. . . The single most substantial factor in the degeneration of the values and morals of our society is that we as a nation are forsaking the Almighty, and I fear that He will begin to forsake us."
What I believe to be the most fundamental principle revealed by God to the founders of our republic is the agency of man. This was the first of all divine rights bestowed by God upon his children in the pre-mortal realm. It was the central issue of the great war in heaven and led directly to the expulsion of the adversary and his followers. Elder Ezra Taft Benson stated, “The right of choice—free agency— runs like a golden thread throughout the gospel plan of the Lord for the blessing of his children. . . the war in heaven over free agency is now being waged here on earth.”
As with the other fundamental principles upon which our country was founded, individual agency is under attack. There are those in society who feel that man is not smart enough, or not wise enough to choose for himself. If left to their own devices, they believe individuals will not choose properly and the collective will suffer. Therefore, the rights of individuals are subjected to what an elite group deems to be for the “greater good”. In this way individual liberty is lost while the government assumes the right of agency on behalf of her citizens. The new ruling class in government then exercises the rights stolen from individuals to further their own agendas and consolidate their power, moving society away from liberty and into the tyranny of ages past.
The country we live in is changing. It has been changing for some time, but the change has been gradual, and fundamental freedoms of our country have remained intact because the value-based principles of our nation have endured. But these principles are now on the verge of utter extinction in our society, replaced with popular, thinly rooted virtues such as fairness, tolerance, diversity, and progressivism. In the name of fairness natural consequences are being sidestepped. In the name of diversity destructive lifestyles are being celebrated. In the name of tolerance depravity is being embraced. In the name of progressivism freedoms are being surrendered. With the ever-increasing loss of our national values, how long before change overcomes us? How much longer do we have before the fears of President Hinckley are realized and God begins to abandon us?
The country we live in is changing. But we shouldn’t be surprised. We have elected a man to the highest office in the free world on a platform of change. He has not been secretive about the change he intends for our nation. He has stated that he wants to “re-make” America. His change is not a return to the principles of our Constitution. His change is not a reaffirmation of the values that led to the greatness of America. His change is simply a punctuation mark on the change that has been creeping over us for many years now.
The most pressing and urgent question of our lifetime is whether we will support this effort to re-cast America in a new mold, rooted in the counterfeit values of a morally corrupt society and power hungry leaders, or whether we will champion a return to the divine principles which God dictated for our land. When Barack Obama and his legions of fans chant “Yes We Can!” and tout “Change We Can Believe In”, will we join the crowd or stand up for the traditions of our forefathers? There are a great many who believe that the “new America” envisioned by some in our government represents the future. It is up to each of us to decide if we will join them. We face a choice of basing the future of our nation on our Constitution and the vision of our Founding Fathers, or upon the vision of those wishing to be the founding fathers of a new kind of America.
The country we live in is changing. As for me, I believe I’ve seen all of the change I can stand.
While it is given to us to choose for ourselves, we must never forget that the work of the Lord will not be frustrated. Just as in the war in heaven, we are free to choose which vision we will support, but the consequences of our choice will not be altered. The great hope which underlies the fear, frustration, and foreboding of our current circumstance is the promise that God is in control. There is a divine destiny for our republic, and no force can alter the decrees of our Father in Heaven. The destiny of our land was not fulfilled when General Washington achieved victory in the revolution. It was not fulfilled when the heavens opened to Joseph Smith. It was not fulfilled when the Gospel was restored, priesthood power conferred, and missionary efforts launched. The great destiny of America includes all of these marvelous events, but will not be fulfilled until the New Jerusalem is established and Christ returns to rule in righteousness in our midst. God holds America in His hands, and her destiny is fixed. Our choice is simply whether we will be part of fulfilling this destiny, or if we will fall, frustrated, with those who seek to change her character.
Yes, the country we live in is changing. We cannot be idle. Now is our moment of truth. Let us give heed to the words of a Prophet of God.
“No greater immediate responsibility rests upon members of the church, upon all citizens of this Republic and of neighboring republics than to protect the freedom vouchsafed by the Constitution of the United States.” (President David O. McKay, General Conference April 1950)
It was no accident that a nation of political and religious freedom was established at the precise moment in history in which it was needed to prepare an apostate world for the light of the Gospel, soon to be restored. The founding of our nation was the great prologue to the establishment of God’s kingdom on Earth. There is abundant witness from ancient and modern prophets alike that the establishment of this nation was done under divine inspiration. The men who were chosen to serve as founding fathers of our republic were choice spirits raised up by God to do a particular work, and they were led in their efforts to produce a miracle never before experienced in the history of our planet. The Constitution these men created, under the guidance of divine providence, represents the greatest form of government ever devised for man. It is so because it is based on principles delivered to them by God.
It is precisely because the founding of our nation was based upon inspired principles that America has overcome many of her imperfections and been an unparalleled force for good in our world.
But the country we live in is changing. The fundamental principles that have characterized the strength of our nation are being eroded at every turn. This erosion has been epidemic in our society for the past several decades. The America that emerged from World War II is only vaguely reminiscent of the America our children are being born into today. Despite the efforts of many so-called “progressives” in the early 20th century, America survived the Great Depression. The American people rejected a concerted move toward collectivized government that was thrust upon them by Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and others. All these challenges have been overcome because the core of the American way of life remained rooted on fundamental principles that were revealed by God to see us through troubled times. America has always been a country founded upon God. Christian values have served as our moral compass. Decency and civility have been considered virtuous, and the idea of selflessness and sacrifice were ingrained in our citizenry. Hard work, honesty, and personal accountability were the price of achieving the American dream. Were it not so, the land of liberty would have ceased to exist long-ago, for God has said concerning this land that "it is a land of promise; and whatsoever nation shall possess it shall serve God, or they shall be swept off when the fulness of his wrath shall come upon them. And the fulness of his wrath cometh upon them when they are ripened in iniquity." (Ether 2:9)
But the country we live in is changing. The 1960’s represented an epic shift in the fabric of our society. We have seen large portions of our society in a moral tailspin for the past 50 years. Whereas God had represented the basis of our society ever since it was founded under His divine inspiration, there has been an organized move to remove him from the public discourse. The words “In God We Trust” have been eschewed by those claiming to stand in defense of the Constitution, that He, Himself inspired. Highly funded and well-organized groups have systematically endeavored to remove any reference to divinity from the public square, using a variety of nefarious tactics. The courts have too often been complicit in this effort through activist legislation and liberal interpretation of the words of our Founding Fathers.
Decency in our society has dissolved into a never-ending parade of filthy images in magazines, on television, and in the movies. Video games celebrate crime, death and destruction, striving for more and more realism in the debauchery experienced vicariously on the screen. Pornography has become so available and abundant that it has become difficult to avoid even unintentional, casual exposure, which far too often leads to piqued interest and dangerous addiction.
The value of a hard day’s work has been replaced, to an alarming degree, with a sense of entitlement. Rather than working to enjoy the fruits of honest labor, far too many look for the government to provide them what they did not earn, yet still feel entitled to receive. The law of the harvest is replaced with a compulsion for people to reap where they did not sow. Selflessness is consequently subdued by the selfish impulse to take from others what they have rightly earned, under the guise of fairness and equal distribution.
The very sanctity of life is being undermined, cloaked in a thin disguise of expressing freedom of choice. How ironic that many of those so willing to impugn individual agency at almost every turn, insist that agency be preserved when it comes to ending the lives of the unborn. Contraception and abortion are inculcated as alternatives to chastity and family units are being subordinated to a myriad of public programs. Truly it does not take a village to raise our children, it takes a stable family.
The law delivered to Moses on Sinai began as the Ten Commandments, but then became the ten suggestions, then the ten inconveniences, and finally the ten relics of an outdated moral ideology.
Perhaps none have expressed the spiral of American society over the past decades as succinctly as eloquently, nor as alarmingly as President Gordon B. Hinkley.
"We, as a people and a nation have increasingly neglected and abandoned time-honored virtues that have been proven through the centuries to keep human beings individually, and therefore collectively, strong. . . The single most substantial factor in the degeneration of the values and morals of our society is that we as a nation are forsaking the Almighty, and I fear that He will begin to forsake us."
What I believe to be the most fundamental principle revealed by God to the founders of our republic is the agency of man. This was the first of all divine rights bestowed by God upon his children in the pre-mortal realm. It was the central issue of the great war in heaven and led directly to the expulsion of the adversary and his followers. Elder Ezra Taft Benson stated, “The right of choice—free agency— runs like a golden thread throughout the gospel plan of the Lord for the blessing of his children. . . the war in heaven over free agency is now being waged here on earth.”
As with the other fundamental principles upon which our country was founded, individual agency is under attack. There are those in society who feel that man is not smart enough, or not wise enough to choose for himself. If left to their own devices, they believe individuals will not choose properly and the collective will suffer. Therefore, the rights of individuals are subjected to what an elite group deems to be for the “greater good”. In this way individual liberty is lost while the government assumes the right of agency on behalf of her citizens. The new ruling class in government then exercises the rights stolen from individuals to further their own agendas and consolidate their power, moving society away from liberty and into the tyranny of ages past.
The country we live in is changing. It has been changing for some time, but the change has been gradual, and fundamental freedoms of our country have remained intact because the value-based principles of our nation have endured. But these principles are now on the verge of utter extinction in our society, replaced with popular, thinly rooted virtues such as fairness, tolerance, diversity, and progressivism. In the name of fairness natural consequences are being sidestepped. In the name of diversity destructive lifestyles are being celebrated. In the name of tolerance depravity is being embraced. In the name of progressivism freedoms are being surrendered. With the ever-increasing loss of our national values, how long before change overcomes us? How much longer do we have before the fears of President Hinckley are realized and God begins to abandon us?
The country we live in is changing. But we shouldn’t be surprised. We have elected a man to the highest office in the free world on a platform of change. He has not been secretive about the change he intends for our nation. He has stated that he wants to “re-make” America. His change is not a return to the principles of our Constitution. His change is not a reaffirmation of the values that led to the greatness of America. His change is simply a punctuation mark on the change that has been creeping over us for many years now.
The most pressing and urgent question of our lifetime is whether we will support this effort to re-cast America in a new mold, rooted in the counterfeit values of a morally corrupt society and power hungry leaders, or whether we will champion a return to the divine principles which God dictated for our land. When Barack Obama and his legions of fans chant “Yes We Can!” and tout “Change We Can Believe In”, will we join the crowd or stand up for the traditions of our forefathers? There are a great many who believe that the “new America” envisioned by some in our government represents the future. It is up to each of us to decide if we will join them. We face a choice of basing the future of our nation on our Constitution and the vision of our Founding Fathers, or upon the vision of those wishing to be the founding fathers of a new kind of America.
The country we live in is changing. As for me, I believe I’ve seen all of the change I can stand.
While it is given to us to choose for ourselves, we must never forget that the work of the Lord will not be frustrated. Just as in the war in heaven, we are free to choose which vision we will support, but the consequences of our choice will not be altered. The great hope which underlies the fear, frustration, and foreboding of our current circumstance is the promise that God is in control. There is a divine destiny for our republic, and no force can alter the decrees of our Father in Heaven. The destiny of our land was not fulfilled when General Washington achieved victory in the revolution. It was not fulfilled when the heavens opened to Joseph Smith. It was not fulfilled when the Gospel was restored, priesthood power conferred, and missionary efforts launched. The great destiny of America includes all of these marvelous events, but will not be fulfilled until the New Jerusalem is established and Christ returns to rule in righteousness in our midst. God holds America in His hands, and her destiny is fixed. Our choice is simply whether we will be part of fulfilling this destiny, or if we will fall, frustrated, with those who seek to change her character.
Yes, the country we live in is changing. We cannot be idle. Now is our moment of truth. Let us give heed to the words of a Prophet of God.
“No greater immediate responsibility rests upon members of the church, upon all citizens of this Republic and of neighboring republics than to protect the freedom vouchsafed by the Constitution of the United States.” (President David O. McKay, General Conference April 1950)
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