Two things I would now like to address given some news I’ve heard which disheartens me.
1) Our constitution grants all Americans the right of free speech, which includes challenging our duly elected representatives and appointed representatives regarding proposed changes which effect each of us -- whether directly or indirectly. SO . . . if White House (WH) staffers and congressional members are going to come into our towns and tout reforms which are clearly so questionable and then try to claim “the anger is ‘manufactured,’” I believe they would do well to remember who they represent and TURN A CLEARLY HEARING EAR in our direction. Further, regarding their concern that protests are arising, let me refer you to our constitution once again, the very first amendment (below). And recently on the news (8/7/09 @ 10:15 a.m.), it was reported that a WH aide said “we will punch back twice as hard.” A democratic republic such as the USA is designed to serve the people’s will, not the government. The government is truly “of the people, by the people, for the people” (from Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address http://showcase.netins.net/web/creative/lincoln/speeches/gettysburg.htm) and ultimately it is the PEOPLE who must be served, not dictated to in regard to how our health care should be from a governmental standpoint, but rather a medical standpoint.
2) George Orwell’s book “1984” was/is well known for its presentation of a government which watches citizens in their homes via cameras, listens to private conversations prompting others to listen and report what was heard/seen, then tries to stifle and/or punish for comments or actions it believes to be contrary to its leaders or governing methods. Many Americans worried when the actual year 1984 dawned, concerned whether these actions would become a reality. With the recent news release stating that the White House is “encouraging” people to report to the WH “rumors” or negative comments regarding the health care reforms pursued by the Obama administration, I wonder if we are now headed that way. However, let me refer back to my item Number 1. Americans maintain the right to free speech and will exercise it EVERY POSSIBLE JUNCTURE. Our nation was founded on that right and many others. PLEASE EXERCISE YOUR RIGHTS!
Amendment 1 - Freedom of Religion, Press, Expression. Ratified 12/15/1791.
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.