What are your hopes and dreams? We generally fail to realize that how we are governed has more to say about whether we will ever realize our hopes and dreams.
When I sat down to think about this question years ago, it led me to study our founding documents and eventually receive certification to teach Civics and the Constitution. Now, I would agree with those who argue that our Creator has providential priority over our futures. Whether by “chance” or choice, we have been placed providentially to live where we do. Therefore, we need to consider the relevance of government to our futures.
A trip around the world of news recently proves this point.
Ukraine and Russia- Look at the difference in the systems of government of these nations. How have citizens’ lives been affected? The hopes and dreams of many at the start of 2022 have changed drastically in the course of a few weeks.
Shang-hai- If you are unfamiliar with this story, why not do a social media search for eyewitness accounts. Determine how complete dependence on government can change your life on a dime.
A little closer to home:
Philadelphia- I was there three weeks ago. “Restrictions” were lifted the day I arrived. People were out on the town and indoors enjoying themselves, shopping, dining, and socializing. A lot of joy, a lot of fun. A couple of days ago, the city government brought back the restrictions. Restaurants that “kept it together” for a couple of years may go out of business if this continues. What about the brand new restaurant that has just opened? This is another example of how hopes and dreams can be affected by your local government.
Brooklyn- People headed out to school and work saw their lives flash before their eyes on the subway. It is being reported that none of the surveillance cameras were working. If this is true, you can see how total dependence on the government can potentially affect your life.
For those of us who are led by emotions, like compassion, fear, misplaced trust, or by personal irresponsibility and misplaced loyalty, Founder Ben Franklin had a word for us that was as true in 1775 as it is today:
“Passion governs, and she never governs wisely.”
Consider the consequences of deciding how you are governed based on misplaced loyalty, emotions, and non-fact-based research. Emotions and attachments (i.e., passion) are not the qualities of free governments in the long term.
It’s time that We, the People raise the bar for choosing law and the facts over emotion if we want wisdom, understanding, and knowledge to rule.
This is Common Sense Civics and Citizenship.🇺🇸
