Learning to Stay Free

September 4, 2024:

For the benefit of new members of the class, we reviewed some prior topics, including the purposes and approach of the current study and some guiding principles in this study. Then we explored the intention of the founders to create a ‘limited government’, given their “distrust of power,” and began going through the “enumerated powers” - the actual list of what the federal government is authorized to do.

Along the way, we are identifying “loopholes” that are used by Congress to avoid the specific limitations placed on their authority, beginning with the “commerce clause.”

We also discussed the distribution of power among the branches of government, and the provision of abilities to each branch to defend themselves against the other branches encroaching on their prerogatives. In addition, power is distributed between the federal and the state governments, to further restrict the growth of power in the new “general” government being created.

And we looked at Congress’ power to declare and stop wars, and our history in dealing with piracy. Lots of stuff!

Next week, September 11, we’ll continue working through the powers of Congress, talk about our role — uniquely among the nations, we ARE the “rulers” responsible for our path -- and how American education was born in a desire to not just continue the British way of thinking about many subjects.  Coming soon - we dive into the Presidency!

Remember to honor those we lost on September 11, 2001, and to be thankful for the courage of those who responded, many of whom are still suffering and dying today as a result of what they had to breathe while digging through the rubble looking for any victims that could still be saved. God bless them all.  

May we stand as strong, when it comes our turn.

Come join us at noon on Wednesday, September 11, at the Honor Cafe!