Why Bother?

(Click here for printable version) Friend of High Plains Patriots...does it ever seem like you are all alone and that no one else seems to get it?  Have you ever found those feelings leading to the attitude of "Why should I bother? "   I know I have often felt that way, but then I remember that is exactly how my opponents want me to feel.  And, if I quit taking a stand, my enemies win.  If you know anything about me, you know I am too competitive to lose.  So, I get up, dust myself off and search out my friends who stand for the same beliefs as I do; and I regain my strength.

Our country has found herself seemingly surrounded by liberal progressives who appear to have taken over.  They are in our schools teaching ideology we do not agree with, they are in the legal system illegally re-writing the Constitution from the bench, and in our government building BIG government policies that clearly infringe on all our American rights and liberties.  Yes, it appears they have taken over and for every step forward we take, we're forced three steps back.  However, we must remember they did not get this far in a day, a month, a year, or even ten years.  They have been successful by staying the course over many years while talking with others to recruit people for their cause.  And, that is exactly how we're going to take our country back...by staying the course, believing in our cause, encouraging each other, and sharing our values and views of freedom with others.

I personally do not care for Tom Cruise, the actor, but you have to acknowledge his passion.  Once he became a Scientologist, he has been its main recruiter.  Not because he has name recognition, but because he is passionate about his beliefs.    He is knowledgeable about Scientology to the point of being able to have a discussion or a debate with anyone, and win.  They do not fight among themselves; they leave that for the people who do not agree with them.  They appear to build strength from each other and from that, people are drawn to them.  Tom seems to have something others are interested in having themselves, and that is what has allowed him to become the main recruiter for Scientology.

So, in this world of what seems to be an overwhelming force out to destroy our freedoms and our way of life, are we going to pick up the flag for our cause?  Or are we going to allow ourselves to feel defeated and make the argument for our enemy that there are just too many of them and there is nothing we can do?  It is one way or the other-there is no middle ground!  If you truly believe in American values and freedoms, then you must be willing to talk to others about the attacks on our freedoms.  Find the things that interest you most whether it is water rights, health care, education, unions, welfare, etc. and educate yourself on that issue.  Be ready to discuss it with others whenever the opportunity arises, and if you find yourself in disagreement with someone else, provide them with food for thought and politely agree to disagree.  Discussions not winner-take-all options...it is a discussion between friends.  I guarantee they will be back for more discussion if you spark their interest and respect their right to have their own opinions. 

I know many, if not all of you, would be willing to risk your life to preserve our freedoms.  However, what we need is not your life...but your time.  Arm yourself with knowledge by reading various books and articles on subjects that interest you.  Find out what the opposition view is and be able to shoot holes in their positions; discuss the issues with someone you trust as a dry-run; then step-out and start a conversation with someone else.  What you will find is that you are NOT alone, and you will help save America one citizen, one person, at a time. 

One other thought, go out and encourage someone you know is already on your team.  Let them know you are thinking about them and appreciate their friendship.  This way they'll know they are not alone as well.  If we stand together, we'll grow in numbers and strength; if we are divided we will fail.  Each day do your part to ensure your team is encouraged and standing tall. 

Penny Bailey, Col. USAF Ret.