Our Freedom to Choose Is Precious

To The Editor:
As local, state and federal governments continue to pile on new regulations, laws and “rules,” our ability to make our own choices diminishes. Example: Efforts are afoot to regulate our salt, sugar and other carbohydrate intake, which would give governments more control over our lives…a substitute for personal and parental responsibility and making good choices? Are the food police on their way?
Surely there seems to be “necessary” laws and regulations like those requiring us to wear seat belts and not use cell phones while driving. These protect us from ourselves and from hurting others. Realistic, sure. But it is a sad commentary on the human condition when we have laws to replace common sense and personal responsibility. Of course those empowered are willing to make more laws and “rules” for us to follow, robbing us further of freedom of choice, giving them added power over our daily lives.
Naturalized American (from Bombay, India) Dinesh D’Sousa in his book: “What’s So Great About America” the title is a statement, not a question, says, “…in America your destiny is not prescribed; it is constructed. Your life is a blank sheet of paper, and you are the artist.” (freedom of choice.)
He notes, “…This is an incredibly powerful idea that is behind the worldwide appeal of America.” Thus we Americans have a blessing we may often take for granted: freedom to choose for ourselves when confronting life’s opportunities and potholes.
In 1875 British poet, critic and editor William Ernest Henley wrote his famous poem, “Invictus” (from Latin for unconquerable) after he lost a foot to an accident. In it he penned the inspiring and oft-quoted last lines: “I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul.” The poem is defiance against misfortune. Henley chose not to be subdued by his bad luck. The master and captain concept might serve us well today.
Those quick to cry, “There ought be a law…the government should do something about that,” might ask themselves: “Am I the master of my fate or is the government? And have I bartered my soul in exchange for entitlements, political pork, favors and a false sense of security? And what costs will accrue to our kids and grandkids if pols recklessly spend for political gain on more vote-getting programs, disguised as caring for those in need? There are very few altruists in Congress and the administration. They quickly are career-corrupted.
Freedom to choose is precious. Like many things of that sort, we often don’t realize what we have till it’s gone.
BOB LOVELL
Court House