Ralph Waldo Emerson
In 1851174ya Ralph Waldo Emerson was writing in his journal regarding the passing of the Fugitive Slave Law. He was seething in anger, in large part because of a betrayal by his friend Daniel Webster who voted for the law. He wrote:
“And this filthy enactment was made in the 19th Century, by people who could read and write. I will not obey it, by God.”
His reference to the 19th century, was clearly a stab at legislators who must have considered themselves “modern men” at the time.
Folks it is now 174 years later (are modern yet?) and it is not even clear whether our leaders can in fact read and write.
I am clear on one thing however. I will not obey.