Since today is the 4th of July, it is appropriate to consider what one of the founding fathers had to say about government and rights. I have chosen quotes by James Wilson. He was one of only six men who signed both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. He was considered the premier scholar of his day. His credentials speak for themselves in having the authority to address such issues. He knew what kind of government was being formed and what it was supposed to do.

"Freemen who know and love their rights will not exchange their armour  of pure and massy gold for one of baser and lighter metal, however finely may be blazoned with tinsel…"

"…wise and good government…instead of contracting, enlarges as well as secures the liberty of man.."

"Government, in my humble opinion should be formed to secure and to enlarge the excercise of the natural rights of its members; and every government, which has not this in view as its principal object is not a government of the legitimate kind".

"The original equality of mankind consists in an equality of duties and rights."

These quotes are from his essay, "On the Natural Rights of Individuals". They are worth considering. From what he said, the present government is not fulfilling its obligations and it does not pass his test for a legitimate government. Instead of increasing our freedoms, it constricts and restrains them. Just look at the proposed fairness doctrine, the hate speech/crime bill, and other various limitations (if you do not believe we have limitations, just try to purchase some unpasteurized milk or milk products, or try to purchase shelled apricot seeds. You will quickly see the limits that exist on our liberties). If your government has not recently expanded your liberties it is not fulfilling its original obligation given to it by the Founding Fathers. In the essay he developed the idea that government was made to be shaped by the men, not the men/subjects be shaped by the government. In our day and age, many in the government seek to mold us into the image that they wish for us rather than accept the responsibilities they were given and to do their job of preserving liberties.

I hope that you remember to enjoy your liberties.

Free Texas!

J Murrah

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