On the Brink
“I know of no safe depository of the ultimate powers of the society but the people themselves; and if we think them not enlightened enough to exercise their control with a wholesome discretion, the remedy is not to take it from them but to inform their discretion." -Thomas Jefferson
We find ourselves in precarious times.
Political divisions have caused family members not to speak to each other. Friendships have been fractured. Some friendships have even ended. Where healthy debates once flourished, incoherent ramblings and shouting matches are now the norm.
Instead of legitimate differences of opinion, a person is accused of hating anyone who disagrees with them. Especially if that person’s viewpoint runs afoul of pop culture. Robust debate had been a hallmark of our constitutional republic.
How did we get here?
The causes of this breakdown are too numerous to mention here in this short blog. To me, it comes down to a lack of awareness. Too many people are unaware of our founding principles. They do not understand the justification for the Declaration of Independence, its linkage to the Constitution, and the meaning of American exceptionalism.
How can our republic be properly defended when the foundation of our nation is not understood?
Freedom is the natural state of man but not the natural state of nations. It is this dichotomy that must be understood to appreciate the wisdom of our Founding Fathers.
Jefferson knew that knowledge was the beginning of wisdom and understanding. He amassed an extensive personal library over his lifetime.
He knew it was incumbent on the citizens of the United States to be well-educated on the principles of democracy, the tendencies of central governments, and to be jealous protectors of liberty. Today, there is no question that we fail to meet Jefferson’s test.
Where there is a desire, there is hope. Hope is one of the things that the Convention of States Project offers. There are liberty-loving patriots both inside and outside our organization who are willing to defend the Constitution and our republic. Reaching, teaching, and activating our fellow citizens is the overall mission of the Convention of States Project. This is one of our founding principles.
If you have not visited Convention of States University, I invite you to do so. We have developed this virtual experience to educate and inspire tomorrow’s leaders. There are a few courses open to everyone.
If you want to have a better grasp of our constitutional principles, take our Constitutional Literacy course. This is a free, self-paced module that provides a base of understanding to help you grow. I always learn new information or am reminded of something I had forgotten when taking these courses.
Click here to get started. I think you’ll find the time well spent.
Brett Sterley is the State Director for Convention of States Missouri.
