As a young Christian lawyer riding into Culpepper, Virginia in March of 1775, Patrick Henry had witnessed the brutal public flogging of a preacher. Tied to a whipping post in the middle of the town square, the preacher's back laid bloody and bare with the bones of his ribs showing. He had been scourged mercilessly like Jesus, with a leather whip laced with metal.

What heinous crime, what foul act had this man committed to deserve such barbarous torture? He was one of twelve who were locked in jail because they refused to take a license from the Crown. Three days later, the martyred minister was again flogged -- this time, to death.

This was the incident which sparked Patrick Henry to write the famous words which later ignited the Revolution: 'What is it that Gentlemen wish? What would they have? Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know no what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!' He later made this a part of his famous speech which he delivered at Saint John's Episcopal Church in Williamsburg, Virginia.

http://www.rense.com/general26/codep.htm

That story illustrates the difference between a right and a privilege. The preacher had the right to preach, but the Brits wanted him to pay for what they considered a privilege.

"One of his most important contributions to the founding of our nation was his steadfast refusal to ratify the Constitution until it included our precious Bill of Rights. These first ten amendments clarify the rights - the inalienable rights - of every American citizen."

http://www.thepatrickhenrycenter.com/

America may not have a long history, but we do have some historical principles to uphold. The matter of supporting my constution is beyond my control. I've sworn to uphold it, so that's that. I just hope more Americans start to realize what they're at risk of losing before it's too late.