Taking a stand

Tonight, I think I will get up on my soapbox.

I am a third generation veteran.  I say this, not to brag but to relate my deep belief in the tradition of service to one's country.  I was taught from childhood that patriotism was very important.  I can remember my father standing tall when the star spangled banner played at an event and every time, he would comment as we sat down that the song would give him chill bumps.  I get them as well.
My grandfather lost part of his leg in Africa during World War II and had to wear special shoes until the day he died.  I never heard him say one bad word about his service to my country.  My uncle was shot while doing a helicopter evacuation during the Vietnam War.  He returned to the States and buried himself in a beer can until the agent orange finally ate up every piece of him, but the day I came to visit him after completing boot camp he cried and hugged me, and told me how proud he was.  I was proud to carry him to his final resting place; in uniform still serving my country as a police officer.
I carry my own demons from my life of service to my country.  I carry them in silence, share stories with a few trusted friends, but I never show regret, only pride.  I have read the history of my country and I know the hard price of freedom.  Some never will....
Now, during this time of turmoil in our beloved land, I ask you, the reader, what price your willing to pay.  Do you sit in silence waiting for the hand of government to sprinkle their scraps upon your head.  Will you trade  freedom for apathy.  At what point was the American spirit broken to the point where we allow ourselves to be herded and sorted like so many sheep in the field.  I will tell you this, when the wolves come, they begin with the weak, but soon the entire flock will be devoured.  You see the Shepard has become blind and impotent in his guarding of the flock.....
Take a stand, return to the values of our forefathers and seek out liberty.  Do not settle for claptrap our government hands out at every opportunity, for indeed, their gifts are as hollow and empty as their promises.

Those who would give up essential liberty to purchase a little temporary safety deserve neither liberty nor safety.  ---Benjamin Franklin