Just Because a Freedom Exists, Should We Use That Freedom To Its Full Potential? by Jon Searles

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	Just Because a Freedom Exists, Should We Use That Freedom To Its Full Potential?
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	Submitted Monday, July 28, 2008
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Recently my father expressed a frustration as it relates to people speaking against and showing open disdain for the United States through their words, and their actions. He was not referring to other governments and those outside the U.S. but those within its borders. He definitely has his own opinions concerning leaders and potential leaders and how the government is managed, but he does not cross the line that disrespects his country. A country he has defended through service and action.

In many countries, speaking out against its primary leader or the government in general could and would result in imprisonment, exile, or disappearance and death by mysterious circumstances. To simply run an opposing campaign against a Robert Mugabe in Zimbabwe Africa, or in a country such as Pakistan could result in candidates running for their lives or being murdered in front of the world. We the United States of America, as a country should count ourselves as lucky that we live in a free society that allows us to speak our mind, worship our God, support our causes, and push agendas and ideas that may not be popular. Maybe we have allowed freedom to go too far. Maybe there is a point in which freedom could tip towards a type of anarchy where those that demand and exercise too much freedom undermine the very freedoms they have come to enjoy and take advantage.

We must ask ourselves "Just because a freedom exists, should we use that freedom to its full potential?" Burning the flag, protesting at military funerals, hanging our President in effigy, joining a paramilitary white supremist organization, or being allowed to express open hate and contempt for our country may be pushing freedom a little too far. Freedom is a privilege that should not be taken lightly. Understand that we should have the right to question the decisions our leaders make and call for accountability, but there is a point when freedom crosses a line that we should not cross even though we are given the freedom to do so. An artist I once read about created an image of Christ on canvas using only his urine. He was chastised by some and lauded by others for using his freedom of expression. I am sure all of you can recall similar stories of expression that just should not be allowed. Some of you may have just cringed at my opinion that this type of freedom of expression or thought not being allowed. I guess some find it hard to use the concepts of good taste and freedom in the same context.

The pundits of radio and television continually attack without thought of decorum and good taste the United States, its leadership, and those things they sensationally target as wrong. Regard for civil and respectful language is ignored, after all, it is their right, their freedom to use arrogance and sensationalism, although I do not know where that is found in the Constitution. Whether you lean left or right in the political world, freedom of opinion and a freedom of expression have lost their way. Bishop Fulton J. Sheen had it correct when he wrote "Freedom does not mean the right to do whatever we please, but rather whatever we ought. The right to do whatever we please reduces freedom to a physical power and forgets that freedom is a moral power." Freedom as a responsibility with a moral power required for its proper use is what I feel our founding father's intended. Whether on radio, television, public forum, or emblazoned on t-shirts, contempt for the United States should not be tolerated or encouraged. Too many have decided that negative messages about our country are the only way to advance an agenda they feel will enact change or encourage an anarchy that they try to dress up as freedom.

Being the part of a great country, even with its flaws, should carry a responsibility of respect and loyalty inherent to the accomplishments that strengthened and created these United States of America. Jehovah's Witnesses, among others, refuse to serve in the military or salute the flag of the United States yet they are fully enamored with sharing the freedom of their faith with everyone in this country. I do not condemn them for their faith, but I do find their message insulting to those who died to maintain the freedoms they so richly enjoy. Others too demand liberties and freedoms at the cost of others. Imagine if all of us were required to put our lives on the line to maintain our way of life. Maybe we would be a little more thankful and humble in the use or misuse of our freedoms.

Respect and reverence have fallen victim to distorted freedom. "Damn the United States! I wish I may never hear of the United States again!" Phillip Nolan exclaimed in Edward Everett Hale's The Man Without a Country. He did not realize at the time that his words would seal his fate in a way that would cause him to regret the words he had said in anger.

"Prisoner, hear the sentence of the Court! The Court decides, subject to the approval of the President, that you never hear the name of the United States again." announced Colonel Morgan, presiding judge over the trial of Phillip Nolan. Phillip Nolan was set to sea aboard a ship which would forever prevent him from hearing or setting foot again on the shores of the United States.

Keeping in mind the fate of Phillip Nolan we should exercise our words carefully, not because our country would set us afloat to never again be part of the United States of America, but because words once expressed cannot return the mouth from which they are spoken and this freedom should come with a responsibility of forethought and respect for a country that still stands an example of the best a country can become in the world of men. Freedom of speech is a privilege that we should respect and embrace in our great country. The liberties we hold dear and hold up for the world to see should be free from the tarnish of those who warp our freedom into something negative rather than as a goal for others to strive.

So how do we stop this type of erosion in our country? Positive, thoughtful, and respectful discussion and maintaining a sense of values as it relates to the privileges afforded to us by liberties that allow us to live in the United States of America. To be a little more direct for the sake of my grandfather, my father, my father in law, my brother in law (currently in Iraq), and my son who have and who are serving this nation; The United States of America, if you do not love it and respect it, don't let the door hit you in the butt on the way out.

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» left by Susan Thom ^(12,047)
Susan Thom (1 year 103 days ago.)

hi jon,

i think these are very difficult times. we, the people, don't feel secure, or backed by our President, or have even heard from him. this is a shame for all who would rather live in this great country than anywhere else. however, we all need guidance and reassurance, and i don't think we have gotten that from our President, leaving people feeling vulnerable and afraid. everything stems from fear, and i am fearful of our kids generation, and what they will now have to deal with. however, i would never say or do anything against the very essence of the freedom we have living here. God bless your son.

thanks for an interesting and well written article,

best regards,

sue

» left by Jon Searles ^(2,108)
Jon Searles (1 year 102 days ago.)

Sue,

Thanks for reading. I agree that we definitely have some problems. I just pray that men stop banging the wrong drums and realize we are all on the same team.

Take care.

» left by robert melaccio sr (1 year 103 days ago.)

Jon I respect all you say and your writing. Yes and there are many who hate this nation and who live here, within our sacred borders, who scheme and connive to see our demise. Yet and there is a yet, when good people do nothing, remain silent and do not speak out that is the very tool that allows freedom to be crushed. It is for love of country that many speak out yet i do not condone country bashing but certainly speaking out to the issues and causes so readily seen in the signs and symbols all about. Yes, against those who by their works would in essence undermine the freedoms, culture and foundation of our society so honorably fought for by many in blood and efforts in the battle and at home. Yes, we should not forget that our forefathers encouraged us to do just this aggressively, as they did in the day they turned against England and established this nation. Yes they loved their nation of origin and many fought in her wars for her as well, but when it came time for truth they spoke out, rose up, did not waver. . I am one writing to the issues that impact every Average American. Usury, corporate bailouts, illegal workers, loss of jobs, industry, our children fighting in nations who hate us and our way of life who come home to a lost job, perhaps no home, no care. Fighting without equipment, resources, handcuffed, hands tied. Yes there are many issues and it is good that we use our freedoms to address what is our opinion as to the causes without bashing this nation. There is no nation on this globe like ours, nor will there ever be, But as I have written to many times, "no nation on the face of this earth, no army or military force will ever breach its walls, no, if that were to happen it will come from within" Disney Hall of Presidents. In my opinion it is time we all looked hard at where we are going as a nation. No not just the ones who have, but the 50 and 60 million who have not. Good job and best wishes.

» left by Jon Searles ^(2,108)
Jon Searles (1 year 102 days ago.)

Robert,

I have read many of your articles and I have never felt hate. Your direct, no nonsense approach makes a lot of sense and you definitely have a love for your country. How do we get those in leadership to come together and make the hard decisions? Thank you for your comments and thank you for reading.

» left by robert melaccio sr (1 year 102 days ago.)

Jon, after years of being able to have the time to research and look into this it is sad it shows in what they do but and that but is a major but, it is not recognized by many Americans even though the signs and symbols are all about. If you look and I do mean look at the actions they take you will find a definite purpose. What that purpose is at the crux of the matter. I have tried in my writings to bring this to the fore but unfortunately, the word of this century, too many are do not realize our country is in mortal danger. Theya re complacent and yes just like before pearl harbor, all was well in Shangri la. Let me end with this. Ask your wionderful Dad to go back and remeber how the facists took control in Germany, Italy and Japan. #1. Nationalism. Pride in nation and patriotism. Number two, prosperity promises, the 1000 year Riech, The Greater East Asia co prosperity sphere, yes and the new Rome. 3rd they created a police state and 4th the crown jewel. Business and government merged for one purpose and the "good" of the nation. Facts Jon. Now what am I saying? We shall know them by their works, what they have done and failed to do. MY best wishes to your entire family, Robert

» left by JW Searles, Sr. from Dallas, TX (1 year 103 days ago.)

My son, Jon Searles, expressed an idea I suggested with much more eloquence than I would have used. I am downright mad and frustrated with people doing anything they want because they can.

People in general do not take any responsibility for the results brought about by their thoughtless word or deed and certainly do not assume accountability for their actions except to say, "I can say and do anything because the Constitution of the United States guarantees that I can." While the Constitution of the United States of America guarantees the citizens of the United States of America many rights and privileges, we must also assume responsibility as well as accountability for any hurt brought about by our own word or action in the name of "freedom." An excellent case in point is the cyber-bullying that is currently going on in middle and high schools across the nation. This malicious, insidious bullying has driven several young people to suicide. Every responsible, accountable American could express other cases as well.

I would urge everyone to adhere to the Golden Rule--Do unto others as you would have others do unto you. If one is angry, say nothing until the anger subsides--think before you speak and think about the results of any action prior to commiting that action.

Thank you son for your words.

Dad

» left by Jon Searles ^(2,108)
Jon Searles (1 year 102 days ago.)

Thanks for reading Dad!

» left by Avis Ward ^(11,455)
Avis Ward (1 year 103 days ago.)

Jon, all I had to do was read Sr's comments to know this was an outstanding article. But actually, it was the author himself that assured me it would be. Many times I have asked people, including teens, "why'd you do that?" and the response was, "because I could." It's exasperating and disheartening. Thank you for sharing and God bless!

» left by Jon Searles ^(2,108)
Jon Searles (1 year 102 days ago.)

Avis,

"because I could." has become more important than respect, responsibility, and moral judgement. Thank you for your kind words. God bless you.

» left by Jean Purcell ^(1,945)
Jean Purcell (1 year 102 days ago.)

Jon, a good article. God bless your dad.

» left by Roschelle Nelson ⁽⁵⁰⁵⁾
Roschelle Nelson (1 year 102 days ago.)

Jon, I must agree with all before me. This was a great article - heartfelt, sincere, well written and point taken.

Thanks!

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