The High Cost of Freedom

   In the United Sates we are granted many liberties that we cherish deeply, but what are the lengths to which the American are people willing to go to in order to protect them?  In 2001 under George W. Bush,  a law was enacted that caused heads to turn then, and is still raising controversy today. Uniting and Strengthening America By Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism, more commonly known as The PATRIOT Act, reduces restrictions placed on law officials by the fourth amendment in circumstances of suspected terrorist activity. In the LA Times I came across an editorial that addresses this issue with an approach many Americans take. The author is trying to reach out the average American by making a strong point that the PATRIOT Act is an infringement on their rights as citizens. He presents a valid argument after introducing that the House failed to extend three provisions of this act. The author continues by explaining that he is not totally against the provisions that he believes will be extended sometime in the near future, but he believes one of them gives the government too much power. The third provision allows the government to obtain business records of suspected terrorist activity with simply a court order. The article explains that this is a direct violation of American's right to privacy, and search and seizure and presents his idea that the Act should require probable cause before financial records can be released. The author has a strong argument that many Americans would agree on, but i my opinion I feel that to those average citizens who are living their mundane lives, this law will never touch their privacy. I believe that it is our right to take whatever precautions necessary to protect our freedom, even if it means temporarily restricting some of our constitutional rights. Honestly, what is the difference between other things that infringe on our right to privacy that we have become accustom to such as DUI check points. A citizen can be driving down the street and drive into check point without knowing it and be required to present identification for no reason other than the officer requesting it. They then can search your car which in some cases may be a violation to search and seizure. Ultimately, our duty as Americans is to do whatever is necessary to protect American lives and above all, we must ensure safety, security, and preservation of our country.

Peaceful Examples Pave New Path

   On Friday, February 11th 2011, monumental and inspirational news spread across the world. Egypt, after eighteen days of protesting, successfully forced their nations leader to resign from power. As supporters of the new government were given the news of the resignation, the former leader Mubarak, and his family, left the city of Cairo. According to The LA Times, President Obama commented on this glorious triumph through a speech shown on cable stations across the United States. The celebration erupting in Tahrir Square could be seen split screen during Obama's speech, which exemplified the significance of this event. The President, who until now has remained neutral, congratulated and recognized the admirable acts of the Egyptian people. He explains that this event is one that will forever change not only Egypt, but also the rest of the world including preceding countries seeking liberty. Obama continues by comparing this victory to Gandhi, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and MLK's civil rights protests, by admiring the peaceful means in which Egypt has acquired their new freedom. Although the speech mostly was congratulating the people of Egypt, Obama does offer a word of advice that their new nation has difficulties ahead that he is certain they can over come. Obama's speech, given in the Grande Foyer of the White House, was a demonstration of his hopes that all nations, including our own, can follow the lead of Egypt by solving problems peacefully without force and terrorism.