"There are more instance of the abridgment of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in power than by violent and sudden usurpations."--James Madison
"It does not take a majority to prevail...but rather an irate, tireless minority, keen on setting brushfires of freedom in the minds of men."--Samuel Adams
This was the second year for our family to attend a TEA (Taxed Enough Already) Party. We are studying Government and Economics this year and what better way to put into practice what we have learned than this? It was a great experience; there were several thousand people protesting and it was very peaceful. The best part was the reaction of people driving by reading the signs--lots of honks in agreement and thumbs-ups. We also saw quite a few people drive by with a curious and slightly perplexed look, which after reading the signs changed to an "OK-that-makes-sense" look and nods of approval. The messages of decentralized government and free-market economics really seem to resonate with a lot of people.
This year I also circulated a petition regarding a potential ballot measure in California to define personhood as existing from conception to death. Sad, but necessary. This was a really scary thing, as I am not accustomed to talking to complete strangers, but people were polite even when they disagreed. In the end, I learned a lesson in overcoming the fear of man (Mt. 10:28) and we got quite a few signatures.
