The American Crisis: Defined
Journal Entry #2
As the Committees of Correspondence gain exposure throughout the various states of our Republic, I must remember to communicate to my fellow citizens three extremely important points about the American Crisis. First, the danger to our FREEDOM of which I speak should not be considered just one more national problem, to be added to an already long list that includes the current mortgage-financial meltdown, the energy crisis, immigration, the war on terror, etc., though this danger bears upon all of them. In fact, this danger actually generates these problems, as well as making each immeasurably worse.

Second, this danger to our FREEDOM has an extremely long history- going back to the era of our founding- though it has gained enormous momentum and force since World War Two. Third, the time grows very short to oppose and counteract this danger. Free and open elections, an unfettered press, widespread literacy through public education, the internet, public forums, freedom of assembly- and of worship, cannot by themselves ensure our FREEDOM. Indeed, these are all necessary, but not sufficient. In fact, this danger is so extremely insidious (subtle and seductive, while treacherous or harmful) that its force and vitality can be amplified through these institutions, yet one might say its appearance is benign, perhaps even benevolent.