The Constitution

This morning I sat at my computer and found an online copy of the United States Constitution and Bill of Rights. Looking back, I don't think I have ever read these documents from start to finish. I have read bits and pieces at times, but never the whole thing. Well today, I did, and what a delightful and, at the same time, sad experience. Delight in the realization that these documents are the backbone and foundation of our great experiment in democracy, sad in the realization that it's being undermined on a daily basis by our current administration and corrupted by special interest.

When the documents were first written, they didn't afford the same rights to everyone. Initially only free white men of property were considered worthy of all the rights and privileges. As the years went by changes were made to provide equal rights to all. As I read, I found it interesting that there is nothing that takes rights away from people. It is all about empowering the citizens of this country and guaranteeing their basic freedoms.

What got me thinking about this was all the news lately about congress making new amendments to the constitution regarding "flag burning" and "same sex marriage.” I'll address flag burning first. Voltaire, the French author once wrote, "I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” This short passage accurately covers “freedom of speech” and “freedom of expression.” Although I'm offended by the burning of our flag, I support a person's right to do so. This must be if, in fact, we live in a true free democracy. Neo-Nazis and hate groups are another bunch that turns my stomach. Although I am offended by their message and can't understand their point of view, I will defend their right to speak to the very end. As far as same sex marriage, so what! If two consenting adults what to marry what right does anyone have to deny them that right. I've been married almost thirty years to the same woman and in no way does same sex marriage diminish the vows that I took with my wife. People just need to leave well enough alone.

For some, accepting true freedom of speech and expression is a difficult, and sometimes, an uncomfortable place to be. Many would prefer to live in their own little world, surrounded by people that are just like them and think exactly the same way as they do. If any one thing destroys us as a civilization, it will be intolerance. Remember that when you try to impose your values or way of life on others. Remember this when you look down your nose at someone for being different racially, economically, or maybe, even perhaps sexually.

------- Charles Cornwall, May 2006