Declaratory and Restrictive Clauses

The Conventions of a number of the States having, at the time of adopting the Constitution, expressed a desire, in order to prevent misconstruction or abuse of its powers, that further declaratory and restrictive clauses should be added, and as extending the ground of public confidence in the Government will best insure the beneficent ends of its institution;

The above language is tucked in just before Amendments I - X to the US Constitution, commonly called the Bill of Rights. In my dream world, every single US citizen would take a good, hard look at 'declaratory and restrictive clauses.' For the umpteenth time, you as a US citizen get jack shit from the government in terms of rights. These amendments outline rights that you, as a free human being, are born with. The government doesn't give you a nose; you were (most likely) born with a nose. Likewise, the government does not 'give you' the right to speech, to self-defense, to be secure in your own home. Like the twittering birds, you are free to exercise your vocal cords as you see fit; like the mama grizzly, you can defend yourself and your loved ones; like the mole in its burrow, you can keep out interlopers. Anything less, and your status is lower than that of a mere animal.

A GOVERNMENT CANNOT GIVE YOU RIGHTS; IT CAN ONLY USURP THEM!

Savvy?

Furthermore:


Amendment IX
The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.

The mere absence of mention in the Constitution doesn't mean you don't have a particular right.

This very fundamental American concept is not being taught in schools. Large portions of the adult population who were taught seem willing to forget it if it means they can get a bigger chunk of the government-entitlement pie. Yet it is this very concept that gives you the dignity only to be found in a freeman.

A government cannot give you rights; it can only usurp them. A good government will help you protect your rights, but it can never, never ever 'give' you rights.

Spread the word.