One of the core tenets of living in the United States is a right we revere: “Freedom of Speech.”
Within very broad limits (such as not screaming “Fire” in a crowded room) we, in the USA, enjoy the freedom to say what we want, when we want, and in the way we want. At least in theory.
But if everyone is talking, then no one is listening. The flip side of “freedom of speech” then is the “responsibility to listen.”
That doesn’t mean we need to actually hear and consider every voice, but it does mean we need to show respect.
Our freedom of speech doesn’t permit us to yell louder than someone else, shouting them down and thereby denying them their right to speak.
Sadly, I see this happening today, especially when the voice is advocating something unpopular or a “politically incorrect” view.
We are beginning to lose sight of all that freedom of speech entails. And if that happens completely, we might lose even more, including the very right itself.
[Freedom of Speech is provided for in Article 1 of the Bill of Rights.]
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Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
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