In our world of events and commemorations, we would do well to enjoy a greater regard for the U.S. Constitution Day, which is celebrated each September 17. It often is overlooked and in the shadow of important Independence Day, started July 4, 1776. The latter has a nice ring to it. It is easy, poignant, important. There is no doubt.
However, The U.S. Constitution was signed by the framers September 17, 1787, more than 11 years later than Independence Day. The leaders after more than a few years of deliberations gave citizens guidelines. In today’s society we should not see it as Biblical, however, it was ahead of its time.
Most countries had dictatorships, detente within power structures, and did not regard a well-rounded constitution either as possible, or, necessary.
The meetings in Philadelphia, Pa. were deliberate and fruitful. Fallible human beings produced the document as a guideline for good government.
There are misunderstandings of the relevance of the Constitution. Still, even with flaws, we should know that we have guidelines to be taken seriously. This year will be year 235 in two days from the date of this week’s edition of The Voice.
We provide opportunities for our citizens to have voice in the direction of our country and governments, nationwide, state, communities. It should not be underestimated, even though he often give a shrug of taking it for granted. We have 10 Bill of Right in the Constitution which is as important as any part of our guiding documents. One note is important, the Second Amendment guarantees self-defense against dictatorial governments, however, not the right to casually use automatic weapons against individuals, friend or foe. That distinction is the basis for our Constitutional rights and not an excuse to prevail with war within our country. Self-reliance, self-defense, self-regulation always will be he basis for our government success and relevance. The concept is greater than just what does the Constitution let us get away with doing against our neighbors. We must see our purpose as more noble than excuses for living an intolerable life.
We always can do better as a society and in our interaction with individuals and groups. In spite of problems of some the forefathers, we have a living document that provides hope, high goals, stainability.