A Nation Without Walls

Law [n]: A code of principle based on morality, conscience, or nature.

Imagine–a nation where there are no boundaries; where one is free to do whatever they please. There are no rules, there are no restrictions, and there are no penalties. To some, this might sound like a nation of pure freedom. To not have cares or worries laid upon them. But to others, this might sound like a chance to do sinister things. I am grateful today that I am in a country, where long ago, there were boundaries, rules, restrictions, AND penalties set. I am proud to be living in the United States of America.

The United States was built on justice and integrity for all that inhabit these lands. Now answer this, what would our nation be without walls? Laws aren’t only there to prohibit us from doing certain acts, but it is also there to protect us, guide us, and even settle our differences. It gives us an unbiased nation of equality as it was promised and signed by 39 delegates in a Virginia Convention over 200 years ago. Our ancestors fought hard and long to bring the very ground that we stand on today to freedom. Once it was liberated, they had to create some sort of system to act as a rock-hard foundation to build this nation upon.

To other nations, America is the land of opportunity. There is a way of life here that is not offered in many other countries around the world. One reason behind this is the fact that every one person in this country is due unalienable rights. Unalienable rights are the divine liberties given unto man by God; they cannot be taken away, or bound. Yet in the past, they have been. The law has resolved many civil disagreements, such as the abolition of slavery, women’s rights, and even segregation. The law has even made way for the people [that’s us] to have some say on how the government runs.

Freedom of speech, religion, protest, press, assembly, expression, and even the right to remain silent, would not be possible if they were not insured and protected by the law. As Henry Ward, a clergyman and abolitionist leader in the 1800's put the argue of libery well: "Liberty is the soul’s right to breathe and, when it cannot take a long breath, it may quickly perish." Where would this nation be if one wasn’t allowed to stand up for what they think is right? Where would we be if the security of having privacy in one’s own home didn’t exist? It is a wonder that a majority of the citizens that reside in the United States do not realize the wonderful significance of these privileges. Which is why law day is a great way to celebrate and honor the liberties of the governed, and to commemorate and continue the purpose of it’s existence.

My personal interpretation of "law" in general would be the complete structure of our society given to us by the government. It is the basis of our nation’s communities and it gives us moral codes to heed and to follow. With these rules and regulations, we are granted the well sought after opportunity for life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Just incase you're wondering, it is almost 2 am here, and I am up trying desperately to finish my essay for this contest. Wish me luck.