“We have plenty of freedom in this country but not a great deal of independence.”

Even under American occupation Iraqi’s are entitled to keep modern automatic rifles for lawful self-protection. No American families are permitted automatic rifles for self-defense or other lawful purpose. So … just how FREE are we???

We are as free as we strive to be. Have you never been to the South Bronx? No one tells them what kind of weapons to carry.

The distinction is poignant. Independence is 'applied freedom' -- it is freedom in practice. We are free to choose but are not free from the consequences of our choices. Freedom means responsibility, and when we do not keep our promises, when we care not for honor or integrity either of ourselves or others, when 'freedom' is but power to command others, then we shackle ourselves to those who wish to rule. No one can make someone 'independent' -- either you do it or not. If you aren't taking care of yourself, somebody else is.

The percentage of prisoners to the general populace when compared to other countries begins to show the plenty of freedom in this country. The compelled compliance, license, victimless crimes, government committed larceny (funny money, income, property, cradle to grave life taxes, etc.) non-acceptance of unalienable rights, the individual now acted upon as financial chattel, the unbridled actions of a police state (part of which, on a recent sales trip I was stopped at multiple military check points in multiple States), etc., etc., etc. also shows the plenty of freedom in this country. It is getting worse, and it will get much much worse before it gets better. A thumbs down for "We have plenty of freedom in this country". I raise it to 2 thumbs based on Archer's description of independence.

Say whut?

Archer's description of Independence is what it is...Applied Freedom.

I like that!

And Shame on Me for never clicking on the rating system all these years to actually find out we can post up our own statements and views...Silly Me!

Mike I noticed has some very good points as well...


I myself have NOT flown in any aircraft since just before 9/11.
I REFUSE to be searched anymore.
That to me is a loss of Liberty and Independence.

Ironically everything we post here and anywhere else online is recorded and stored by the N S A.
"Our Own SS"

Thought-producing statement.

Freedom, an action verb. Liberty a noun. Economic, physical, and spiritual liberties. Freedom to move about without economic liberty is nothing more than a slave dragging a ball and chain. 

Is there not a positive correlation between freedom and independence?