Freedom of speech. Our first amendment, and our most controversial inalienable right.
Over history, communication has evolved and changed to meet the needs of just about everyone. In the beginning, humans relied on spoken word and cryptic messages… today, we rely on the speed of technology at our fingertips. The evolution of technology and communication is perhaps the best evidence of human advancement. It is unfortunate however, that one of our biggest freedoms is one of the biggest things dividing us socially.
In the last few years, I’ve noticed that despite strong opposition and criticism, some people are exercising their first amendment right to speak for those who have no voice, and educate people on subjects that mainstream media overlook. For example…
Michael Moore: Love him, hate him, you can’t get around the fact that the man is brilliant. No matter what your POV is on him or his films, talent is talent. Some people think he’s a fraud, or that he twists facts to suit his agenda. I think those people are afraid of hearing the truth. It’s scary knowing that some people really think that our government is truthful and honest with the American people. Michael Moore takes everyday issues and reveals them in a light that really gives you something to think about. He has touched on everything from gun control, school shootings, global warming, the auto industry, 9/11, and the American health care system. Out of all his films, the one that has caused some of the most controversy is “Sicko”. I really don’t think people took him as seriously as they should have until “Sicko” came out. With that one film, he open a lot of peoples eyes to a very serious problem this country has. Would you want to decide which body part to have sewn back on? Would you sit back and calmly watch as one of your loved ones was blatantly denied the care they need for a life-threatening illness?
Zeitgeist: A fairly unknown documentary that features 3 main topics of interest, the Federal Reserve, the “truth” about 9/11, and the origin of Christianity. There are many conspiracy theories out there about 9/11, but the one presented in this well made film is probably the most believable one I’ve heard in the past 7 1/2 years. The segment about the Fed is quite interesting as well… it points out some interesting facts that our government doesn’t want American citizens to know. As far as the segment on religion… I happened to find it quite intriguing, if not amusing. I used to consider myself a religious person, but I started asking questions and coming to my own conclusions that just didn’t fit conventional, traditional “religion”. The facts presented in the film are shocking to say the least. Many religious fanatics and conservatives have tried to “disprove” this film, but the facts are written in the history of man. Even if it’s just out of curiosity and you don’t agree with what’s presented, I suggest that everyone see this documentary. Are you willing to question what you believe in?
Bill Mahr: Yes…I admit, I’m a fan. I didn’t really know much about him outside of his comedy until he made “Religulous”. I saw it in a small local theater when it first came out, and I was awe-struck. I have never before seen such a brilliant and blatant exam of organized religion as a whole. No matter what you faith is, you have to admit that he asks some really good questions, and make a lot of excellent points. He examines the heart of religion, and interviews some very…interesting people. Some of the people that he talked to were the epitome of religious fanaticism. You know things have gone too far when you’re making money by convincing people that you’re the second coming of Jesus Christ while you’re sitting there in an Armani suit. His TV show “Real Time With Bill Mahr” is probably the best panel talk show I’ve ever seen. He has guests from all religious beliefs, political positions, career backgrounds, and talents… and yet, he never loses the spark that gives the show life. He’s funny, articulate, intelligent, inquisitive, and isn’t afraid of any consequences. Screw right-winged AM radio, there should be more people like Mahr telling it like it really is.
Aside from these 3 big contributors, G4 has a new show called “G4 Underground” that presents reports on topics that, to many networks, are taboo. Medical marijuana, porn, real life superheroes, professional wrestling, new “underground” drugs, ect. Well worth the watch, Morgan Webb does a fantastic job of hosting the show as well.
I’m proud to be an American. There may be a lot of things about our government and society that I don’t like or don’t agree with… but these people have made me realize that our First Amendment right is the most important one we have. The world would be one hell of a wasteland if we weren’t allowed to speak out and be heard. Advocates for censorship are trying to rewind the progress of human evolution and technology. Speak up! Let your voice be heard! Fight for what you believe in, or you’ll be just another face in the crowd.
“Rise, from the ashes and decay. Rise, from the prison of your grave. Rise, above the standard and the norm. Rise, into the eye of the storm!” – KMFDM
(Disclaimer: These are my own thoughts and opinions.)
Posted in Experiences, Ramblings
Tags: 9/11, Bill Mahr, censorship, Christianity, controversy, documentaries, Experiences, first amendment, G4, government, KMFDM, Media, medical marijuana, Michael Moore, Morgan Webb, Movies, news, oppinions, professional wrestling, Real Time with Bill Mahr, religion, Religulous, Sicko, truth, underground, Zeitgeist
This is a picture of it during the day. Imagine what it’s like at night with the waterfall and fountain all lit up. Anyway… we parked the car and walked around for a while. We both pictured what it would be like to have our ceremony there, and we both fell in love. To make it even better, we got online once we got back home to check out the price, and it’s cheaper than our original idea of having it at the World’s Fair Pavilion in Forest Park. Kiener Plaza would be easier to get to for everyone, it’s centrally located in the city, and there’s plenty of cool places in the surrounding area of downtown to take pictures!
SocialVibe