Just read your essay. I agree with most and rspect the fact that you 'thunk it'. I have done quite a lot of international travel and had the unique perspective of getting 'snapshots' of America as I returned for short periods of time between longer work periods overseas. It was astounding, to me, that the country has devolved so absolutely and so quickly. I have become borderline pessimistic that there can be a return of America as I think of it. I am well aware of our governments agregious acts of spying and extra-constitutional behavior. All made legal by every branch of government and even at the direction of the electorate. At least with our active consent. TSA is a prime example. The DAARPA, Freedom Act, Patriot Act, and even as far back as the 16th Amendment (1913), The New Deal, and Great Society efforts were all turning points towards the direction we have allowed this nation to take. As I say, I suspoect we are well past a tipping point and wondered what others are thinking about our near future. You seem to be a more responsible citizen than most. Keep up the good fight.