It does not take a majority to prevail...but rather an irate, tireless minority, keen on setting brushfires of freedom in the minds of men. -Samuel Adams
When 26 year old filmmaker Matthew Perdie decided to walk from the Northeast tip of Long Island all the way across the United States to the coast of Santa Monica, California, he had one goal in mind: "setting brushfires in the minds of men".
I first met Matt in Denver at Blogcon '11. He came to film the event for FreedomWorks, and while there, he began networking to gauge interest in a new series he was putting together entitled Perdie Across America.
Now, let's be perfectly honest here. It's not common to meet young people who have a great deal of knowledge about our country's founding, much less about any other hot-button issue in the world of politics today. Yet, as I began conversing with Matt, I quickly realized he had no problem holding his own and, in fact, could likely debate the sharpest guy in the room with no hesitation. So, when he asked me if I'd take a few minutes and watch the trailer to Perdie Across America, I was eager to see what in the world he had put together.
"A country that does not care to talk politics because it could potentially incite a heated argument are choosing to endanger liberty for the convenience of apathy," said Perdie in his opening dialogue.
Well, I'd say that pretty much sums it up, don't you think?
The average American today has been fooled into thinking that it's impolite to debate (or even discuss) politics, and that we are supposed to stick to the middle of the argument in order to remain politically correct. Meanwhile, the liberal left has picked a side, and while we are busy frantically debating ridiculous things like whether or not Governor Romney should cave to the Obama campaign and release his tax returns, they are actively working to destroy the very fabric of our nation. One tiny thread at a time.
So, how's that middle of the road thing working out for us?
What it's doing is diverting the attention of an entire nation from the real issues at hand.
"For my life to have purpose, principles are required. And, if my actions don't support my principles, my life loses its integrity." Matthew Perdie set out to walk across the United States simply because it was something he could do in order to bring awareness to the dangers of massive government expansion. It was a hot, painful, extremely lonely journey for him. There were moments when he wondered if what he had set out to do really mattered at all. Yet, he continued, forsaking the very idea of quitting simply because it became too tough."There's a disconnect between the philosophies we live by, and the actions we decide to take," said Perdie. And, rather than risk compromising the principles he's chosen to live by, he decided to carry on...to fulfill the mission.
So, what lesson can we gain from watching a series like Perdie Across America? Should it matter to you whether this young man decided to complete the journey, or take the easy way out?
I think it matters a great deal, in light of the challenges we face in November.
What will it take to wake America to the dangers we now face as a nation? Is it possible that one guy, armed with a walking stick, an American flag, his tent and his camera can manage to wake an entire nation?
If we listen to what he's saying, it is.
It's time, ladies. It's time to set aside the discomfort of discussing politics around those who gasp at the mere idea that you'd dare try and discuss the dangers of government expansion, of re-electing Barack Obama, or any other specific issue we're facing. It's time to pick up the phone and, as Wisconsin's Lt. Governor Rebecca Kleefisch challenged me in a recent interview, begin calling everyone you know simply to be certain they're registered to vote. For some of us, it's time to get registered ourselves.
Smart Girl Politics Action has a mission that is three-fold: we seek to engage, to educate, and to empower women to affect change in this country at the local, state and national levels. Matthew Perdie's mission when he set out to walk across this nation was not dissimilar to ours--he walked through many small towns and cities, engaging in conversation with ordinary Americans about the important issues we face as a nation. He educated those who weren't aware, and challenged all of them to pay it forward, to influence change in their communities. His ultimate message is crystal clear: "to Barack Obama and future progressives that dare to stand in my way, I will work to abolish your ideologies influence over my government before my life is through." It really was fascinating to watch.
What do you say, ladies? Shall we join Matt in his effort to raise awareness about this gargantuan government that continues to grow with each passing day? Or, do we stay comfortably nestled in our cocoons, leaving this disaster for our children and grandchildren? Is that the legacy we intend to leave behind?
For me, choosing "to endanger liberty for the convenience of apathy" is simply no longer an option.
Think on it, and choose wisely. We are no longer guaranteed the freedoms we hold dear, and time is running out.
To order Part One of Matthew Perdie's film Perdie Across America or support his efforts, follow this link. While you're at it, follow Matt on Twitter: @PerdieXAmerica.
Matthew also traveled to Smart Girl Summit this past weekend, and shot some fantastic footage of the event. Please be sure to check out the videos, and thank him for giving so much of his time to create this memory of our biggest event of the year!



