Lessons for the Colosseum
Passage of the Paul/Grayson amendment was a triumph yesterday. It also teaches us many lessons. Those of us who viewed the hearings all afternoon yesterday not only got a civics lesson but some crucial reminders.
1) RP knows what he's doing. It's enough that his philosophies are unique, he doesn't compound that isolation by berating people like Barney Frank and Mel Watt. BF had the power to not bring 1207 up for hearings, despite all the cosignatures. RP's cordial, professional, persistence over these many years helped his success yesterday. Insult BF's and Mel Watt's policies here, sure, but personal insults about them here on DP are made in public and may come back to bite the movement in the ass. Is it really that important to vent?
2) Congress has all the power. You saw it yesterday. A million moms can march, an Illinois Senator can win the presidency by landslide, doesn't matter... big changes do not happen without Congress and the liberty movement needs elected reps in Washington asap. Rand and Peter in the senate, and several house seats --- we should focus like a laser beam on those objectives.
3) Activism works. Didn't it feel good to call Financial Services members yesterday? I had a 3-minute conversation with a staffer and felt like I really made a difference. I've been in congressional offices while staffers take phone calls so I know my call wasn't the dealmaker but you know what --- our collective action is being heard.
4) Ron Paul has been legitimized now. Though there will still be some efforts to tie his ideas to quackery, we are in the Colosseum now Gladiators, the battles will be more intense. We must stay on our game, and I advise doing as Ron does. Agree?
