Great Expectations

America.  The very sound of that name made men weak in the knees.  Dreams of a future, a hope, a chance to be a freeman rather than a subject, caused fathers to lead their families into the great unknown, at tremendous risk to meager fortunes and even life itself.  These families toiled under the harshest conditions imaginable for years on end, with nothing but great expectations to keep them going.  You see, in America, anything was possible.  If a man was diligent, honest, hardworking and faithful, he could obtain a better life, if not for himself, for his posterity.  America was the land of realized dreams and endless possibilities.  America was the land of the free and the home of the brave.

For generations, our great country provided sanctuary to men and women from every nation on earth.  Men and women dreaming of a better life - those willing to pay for the price of their dream by the sweat of their brow.  The price was high, but the dividend unmatched.  America was a builder of men.

As our country became established, toil and hardship gave way to ease and comfort.  Our people, once hallmarked by their tenacity, by their ability to thrive in the midst of the most adverse conditions, became entitled and lazy.  They wanted all of the benefits of being freemen with none of the responsibility.

They couldn't have it both ways.  Little by little, our people began to look to the government to shoulder the responsibility for their happiness and success rather than being responsible for themselves.  They wanted to pretend to be freemen, but only when being a freeman was easy.  When it became difficult or uncomfortable, they expected, no, they demanded, that their master to come to their rescue.  The master was only too willing.

Like humoring small children, the master allowed the people to believe they were still free. But little by little, freedom by freedom, they were closing the net .  They have now effectively convinced the people that they are not fit to care for themselves, make their own decisions or manage their own estates.  In fact, any "freemen" that truly attempt to live as a sovereign is quickly reminded they are but mere subjects.  Our great expectations have come to ruin.

People, we choose.  We choose how to live.  We choose to live as hopeless paupers or as free men.  The path of the free man is wrought with peril and hardship.  It is the road less traveled.  But this road allows your soul to soar, it gives you hope.  It makes you responsible for yourself and your future rather than waiting for crumbs from a cruel master.

You can't have it both ways.  You can't live as free men and still expect the government to pull your fat out of the fire.  Choose.  Live.  Be free.