The rights expressed in our Constitution are absolute and are explicitly understood to be given not by government, but by the Creator. At the same time, these rights are not only limited in number and quality, but also limited in expression and practice. A self-governing population is permitted, if not obligated, to defend these rights and establish the limits of their expression. We do a disservice to ourselves and those who follow us if we do not understand what “rights” truly are, and how they are best defended and practiced.
Excesses of limitation (tyranny), and excesses of permission (lawlessness), must be avoided. That is what government is for, and what the word “government” means. This is why we do not interpret the Second Amendment in such a way as to place weapons into the hands of the criminally insane, and why we do not interpret the First Amendment in such a way as to encourage yelling “Fire!” in a crowded theater. It is best if those entrusted with self-governance are acquainted with natural and revealed law, as these will inculcate and guide the most peaceful and prosperous results. It is also important, when establishing laws and enforcing them, that some allowance is made for mercy.
Beware of extremes. There is much benefit to receive and impart in avoiding extremes. Extremes lead to genocide, both inside and outside the womb. A civil being ought to be aware of, and take responsibility for, the consequences of behavior. Without such awareness a person is not really free.
We happen to live in an age where the words “I don’t think that’s a good idea” are somehow taken as an extreme insult, or a suggestion that such behaviors need to be outlawed. Perhaps this is the fruit of a litigious society. The fact is, civilization works better with clear and cordial discourse, respect, intelligence, patience, and other virtues. There most certainly is a place for force, but force is, as most grown ups know, a last resort. In view of the left’s propensity for dumbing down their clientele, force will eventually be brought to bear upon the lawless, both from below and from Above.
No, as far as the number being limited, the Tenth Amendment puts the lie to that.
Otherwise, I find your post well reasoned and well written. Thanks.