by Susan

January 15, 2002

KeepAndBearArms.com -- There is an element of truth to the old saying that ignorance is bliss. There are those who demand to be fully informed about the world around them, preferring to be knowledgeable rather than naive. Conversely, others desire a more palatable and calm existence, unencumbered by the weighty issues of realty.

A recent movie entitled The Matrix, delves into a futuristic world where people are kept oblivious to their own reality by a powerful artificial intelligence. Very few are able to escape the system and see the truth for what it really is. Those who do manage to break away from the Matrix mind-control are faced with unexpected change. With their awakening comes freedom and a harsh dose of reality.

In a similar vein, many of our fellow Americans today, are asleep. They are blissfully unaware of the events that are transpiring all around them. For the most part, they are content and not the least bit aggravated by a government that pries into and manipulates nearly every aspect of their lives. They do not recognize a trend toward fewer rights and freedoms, because such matters are rarely, if ever discussed in most circles.

Most people do not fear further encroachment on their rights because they can perceive no real threat. They have no understanding of what is meant when a patriot uses a term like "slippery slope". Basically, they see no reason to worry because no one is sounding the alarm.

Our government has created an illusion of tranquility that leaves people feeling safe and secure. The media reinforces that perception with incessant repetition. Day in and day out, we are bombarded with the ideas and values of those who control the radio stations we listen to, the television shows we watch and the movies we pay to see.

Today, many or our fellow Americans have been lulled to sleep by misinformation and a false sense of security. I consider myself one of the lucky ones. Not that long ago, I too, was blissfully unaware of the problems that were all around me. I was relatively content with the understanding that all was basically well with the world. I believed my government could handle any crisis and that they were working to protect my rights, certainly not to diminish them. Each night, I would watch maybe thirty minutes of local news and would typically see what had happened that day within a 100 mile radius of my home. There were weather reports, sports, local interest stories and the occasional traffic jam. From time to time, the news would mention some event the President or Vice President had attended. Those segments usually lasted just a few seconds though. There would be a photo-op with everyone smiling. Since there was rarely any discussion of important government-related issues, obviously, all was well with the world.

My 'reality pill' came to me in the form of a patriot who entered into my life. I was shocked to learn that my government was working to disarm me. I had not been aware, nor had I ever even considered, that my most basic of freedoms and rights were in jeopardy.

Regardless of its source, when information is repeated often enough, it begins to be absorbed, assimilated and understood as fact. I did not then realize that the liberal-biased media was working overtime to further an agenda that was completely out of step with my own personal views and beliefs. More chilling was the realization that my children were already being heavily influenced by their teachers at school with a decidedly leftist and socialistic ideology.

It is fairly easy to determine the degree to which children attending public government schools have been indoctrinated. For example, ask a child if guns are good or bad. Not that long ago, most children would have related a much more positive opinion of firearms as being useful for hunting, defending the home, or for winning wars. Today, children are taught that guns are bad. Their impressionable young minds accept what they hear as fact and their answers will reflect what they have been taught.

For an even more telling revelation, ask a young child what he or she would do to make things better if they were President of the United States. More often than not, you'll hear suggestions like, "I would give away free food to the hungry people", "get rid of all the guns", or "make everyone share their stuff". A friend's son responded by saying that he would "make all the rich people buy everyone a free house". Yes, socialism is alive and well and being taught in your local grade school.

If we wish to retain what is left of our freedom and hope to begin to gain ground, it is imperative for patriots to grow in number. Our best bet is to work to "wake" those who we feel we can reach. Some patriots will create websites or newsletters to help spread the word. For others, it may mean talking one-on-one to a friend, co-worker or family member.

As patriots, it's our job not only to defend the truth, but to share it with others. Just a few minutes spent with someone discussing your views can leave an indelible impression. A little of your time could make a world of difference to someone who has been "asleep" and sheltered from the truth.

The next time you hear someone say they have no opinion, help them find one. If you have friends or family who aren't concerned about these important issues, show them why they should be. Do not ignore the fence-sitters. Work with them. Share that book, article or video tape that you have found to be especially informative or moving.

It's time to sound the alarm and wake the American people from their slumber. As patriots, we must each do our part. It is said, that all it takes for evil to triumph is for good men to do nothing... What will you do?