by Reid Fitzsimons
I have a friend who was raised in relative poverty but, through hard work and smart life decisions, became quite wealthy. A number of years ago his son, at perhaps the age of 13, went through an obnoxious spoiled period- very mouthy and said pretty vile things. If he had to be home by 9, or to bed by 10 on a school night, life was UNFAIR, and one of his refrains was “I HAVE RIGHTS!” Many of us can recall going through similar adolescent phases, and thankfully most of us grew up and out of this “it’s all about me” selfishness,”as did this young man.
It’s interesting that the term “rights” is so often invoked by privileged kids (in the years I spent do-gooding in impoverished countries I don’t recall ever hearing it). Of course, to them it’s an ill-defined generic word that essentially means, “I should get my way, I deserve whatever I want!” Unfortunately, this understanding and interpretation of “rights” is increasing in the US as we’ve become wealthier, more selfish, greedier, and more shallow: “rights” have become little more than political and cultural weapons and slogans, without regard for what they really are, and it is indeed pernicious to trivialize them. A “right” is not an argument for “I want what I want, and I want it now.”
Carl M Butler
Excellent essay, Reid! There are many of us who understand every single word you wrote and agree wholeheartedly. Unfortunately, the willfully ignorant masses cling to the word 'rights' without having any real understanding of either the origin of rights or the actual meaning of the terms in light of the historical context of the days in which we live. Keep the faith, my friend, and keep writing! It is exactly this sort of essay that will maintain the correct perspective on life and culture in our great land.
Alfred
Great article. 1000s of years from now it will be included in a good book. In the book there will be a chapter, letters from Reid to the Americans.
It will take that long for it to sink in.
Alfred
It is time to end the party. A 2 party system divides us and like all good Americans we believe our side is right.
If you look out of your window and the sun is shining but the leaders in your party tell you to stay in "there is a storm brewing", who are you going to believe? Your eyes, your ears, your self OR your leaders. Open the window and take a good long look for yourself. Believe your eyes, your ears, your self. Blind faith is for the ignorant.