"In questions of power then, let no more be heard of confidence in man, but bind him down from mischief by the chains of the Constitution."
-- Thomas Jefferson

* * *

This article was featured in the Ephrata Review in the Letter to the Editor.

Constitution Day
September 17, 2008

By Dan Frank

On this day, September 17th, two hundred and twenty one years ago in 1787, the U.S. Constitution was signed by thirty-nine brave men who forever changed the course of history. Sadly, probably one of the most monumental days in our history, goes all but unnoticed by many. Worst yet, politicians in Washington, who take an oath to defend and holdup the Constitution, all but ignore it, rendering this sacred oath essentially a formality for many in office. Thus, America, the beacon of liberty, prosperity, and equality is not what she once was; she has a fever that desperately needs attention, a doctor, in fact, I would say numerous doctors.

The cry for help is loud, very loud, our Constitutional Republic has given us so much, and it's now time for us, the American people, to graciously give back, help her, restore her and nourish her, we can not nor must not let her succumb to her plight.

Let's make that much needed call for assistance by celebrating this Constitution Day, and what better way to celebrate then by picking up the Constitution and begin reading it, studying it, and immersing yourself in it. Read the brilliant work our founding fathers penned two hundred and twenty one years ago that created the greatest country in the history of mankind. Rekindle the relationship with "liberty, justice, domestic tranquility, and posterity."

Though not an official holiday, perhaps we ought to treat it as such, the beauty of recognizing this special day, there is no need for gifts, grilling burgers or baking cookies, just an hour or two of quiet time reading the true and only "Contract with America." So I encourage you to take the time today, to read this incredible document, which was written in our very own Pennsylvania State House in Philadelphia, the same wonderful place where the Declaration of Independence was signed. We are fortunate to live in this history rich area, take advantage of it, take the short drive to Independence Hall. Make "the Constitution" and the spirit of liberty live loudly in your heart each and everyday.

If I may borrow some words from a movie although somewhat amended, "two hundred and twenty years ago great men wished to embed the seventeenth of September forever in our memory. There hope was to remind the world that fairness, justice, and freedom are more than words, they are perspectives. So if you've seen nothing, if the illness of our Constitution Republic remains unknown to you then I would suggest you allow the seventeenth of September to pass unmarked. But if you see what I see, if you feel as I feel, and if you would seek as I seek, then I ask you to stand beside me, and celebrate the seventeenth of September, and always remember, remember the seventeenth of September."

You can read and download the Constitution at Here.

Dan Frank is a student of legal history, politics and the US Constitution. He is currently a congressional candidate for Pennsylvania's 16th District with the Constitution Party.