Freedom is never free.....

"It does not require a majority to prevail, but rather an irate, tireless minority keen to set brush fires in people's minds."-Samuel Adams

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Tea Party Pooper

"Nevertheless, to the persecution and tyranny of his cruel ministry we will not tamely submit -- appealing to Heaven for the justice of our cause, we determine to die or be free." -- Joseph Warren, 1775

Dr. Joseph Warren was not only a physician, but a soldier during our struggle for independence. History has remembered him as an “original patriot”, twice delivering public commemorations of the Boston Massacre while British troops watched on.
He was one of many that had the vision, passion, courage, and intestinal fortitude that would take a theory, an idea, and turn it into the foundation that would become the greatest nation in the history of the world. A British musket ball would take his life at Bunker Hill in 1775.
At this period in history, these ideas had to be conveyed to those that would listen, through the press or oration. You had better believe the conspirators in the back rooms of taverns chose these individuals very carefully. These individuals who would deliver the message, as well as sell its content had to be very savvy in public speaking. They were also charged with articulating a passion that was believable. Dr. Warren was one of these patriots with the right stuff.
I attended the Tea Party protest on April 15th on Fountain Square in Cincinnati, Ohio, anticipating a high energy and quite possibly an historic moment. There were thousands in attendance. Anti-tax signs were everywhere. Several groups of anti-protesters were there as well. There seemed to be a subdued energy that was waiting to erupt. It was a glorious moment.....up until the time the scheduled speakers took the stage and, well, spoke.
I don’t mean to diminish the efforts of the organizer. To put this together in seven weeks is astonishing. But an enormous opportunity was lost in the high pitched, monotone voice that delivered a message that reminded me of a John McCain campaign speech. Flat, zero passion, devoid of any vocal inflections to excite or incite. The content of the speech lacked imagination, and left me feeling empty and very disappointed. In today’s world, a little theater goes a long way.
Look what it did for a mid-western senator with no experience in anything.
We, as “new” patriots have a very, very long road ahead of us.

“Our country is in danger, but not to be despaired of. Our enemies are numerous and powerful; but we have many friends, determining to be free, and heaven and earth will aid the resolution.” -- Joseph Warren, 1775

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