It's down to you

This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

As we approach Independence Day, I am struck by the pervasive can't-do attitude of Americans.

I constantly hear complaints about the things the government does, both to its citizens and to other nations. A day doesn't go by that I don't hear a complaint about conspirators, charlatans and evil-doers who are "destroying our country."

Yet most folks don't hear themselves say "our country." The Constitution is pretty explicit about that point — we the people. It is within your power to join a movement, sign a petition, vote, write to your representatives or work to amend the Constitution.

We are only the passive victims of government action if we choose to be.

The law belongs to the people and it can change, if we want it badly enough.

The tools to make a difference are already available to you. Sadly, many seem to forget about that.

Sam Clark

Bountiful