A democracy is probably one of the greatest dreams come true in my opinion. There was a time when this country was ruled by a foreign government. That government was not run to benefit the people. All the British priorities were about their prosperity. Everybody else was dragged along for that purpose. Those who resisted were punished. However, it did not stop the founders of this nation from dreaming. They dreamed of a place where citizens would be treated equally. Today we celebrate freedom but we should also remember their dream.
According to the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Information Programs, a democracy guarantees the rights and freedoms of the people. The people in return follow the rules that make democracy work. For example, they choose to respect the rights of other citizens. There are also other responsibilities such as serving on juries. These responsibilities call for a people who are active in the life of the country.
There are those who think that the practice of democracy here is sealed for life. However, they forget the simple fact that democracy is a way of life. Without the people, there is no democracy. Democracy may seem like a fine machine, but it needs the citizens to sustain it. That is why James hopes that the present generation realizes what they hold in their hands. They have a precious legacy in democracy. They should, in turn, bestow it upon their offspring.
When I spoke to James about the American dream, all he could talk about was how entitled the youth feel. They think that they are entitled to all the perks of freedom. However, they also feel that they should not have to work in the same fields that would cause democracy to thrive. In the words of his 19-year-old son, it is time to kick back and enjoy the good stuff. Like the early fathers of this nation, James’ dream is to hand over the spirit of freedom to his children and grandchildren.
“It is the little things that others take for granted, that matter to me. I can go to church without fear. I own my thoughts and principles. Besides, I can join and meet people who share my way of life. I want my children and their children to have the same, if not better privileges,” James answered when I asked him why democracy was so important to him.
Like James, I realize that it will take more than a couple of history lessons to rekindle the passion for freedom in our youth. However, the thought of living without freedom is inspiration for James and others to train their children to cherish freedom. The only way to do that is to work diligently. Service to the community is one way to fan the dream. Others may be called to work in various offices and they should do so with enthusiasm.
For those of you who want to be free to make choices for your own life, you cannot let democracy go cold. Those of you who want to have a say in the running of the country, do not take lightly the duties that guarantee a place for you in government. Thus, let the reality of freedom live on through your work.
References:
U.S. Department of State's Bureau of International Information Programs
http://usinfo.state.gov/products/pubs/principles/religion.htm
http://usinfo.state.gov/products/pubs/principles/citizen.htm
1 comment:
I agree with your statement, “There are those who think that the practice of democracy here is sealed for life. However, they forget the simple fact that democracy is a way of life.” I think there are a lot of people that believe this. I also believe that people don’t understand how easily the system could change if they don’t pay attention. By paying attention, I mean staying informed as to what is happening in our government.
I also agree with James. The students at the school I teach at seem so entitled. They just expect thing to be given to them and don’t feel they need to work for their grade, that simply showing up for class they have earned an A. My media students seem to think that the fancy equipment will just show up each year and that participating in a fundraiser is too much work.
Good Post!!
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