Let History Be Your Guide

Sometimes we get caught up in the moment.  It’s only natural to get so focused on what is immediately in front of us that we forget to look at the big picture.  The experts call this phenomenon “tunnel vision.”  It happens in politics a lot, especially to those who are passionately engaged in a particular cause or issue.  There is a tendency to overemphasize the importance of small victories and take the losses much harder than one probably should.  I see this occurring in the Tea Party movement.

Those who participate in the Tea Party movement have a fundamental belief about the proper function and role of government in our society.  The great debate centers on whether government should be small and unobtrusive or large and all-encompassing.  However, the movement is still in the infant stage.  It is yet to be determined whether the movement will sustain itself for the long haul or if those who espouse the message will become discouraged in the short run when inevitable setbacks occur. 

For inspiration, those who embrace the message of the Tea Party should look to the abolitionist movement in the United States.  It began in 1688 when Dutch and German settlers officially came against the practice of slavery in a letter to their church.  Over time, numerous Revolutionary founding fathers such as Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Paine, and Benjamin Rush became involved in anti-slavery societies.  The movement suffered defeat when slaves were listed as 3/5^th of a person in the Constitution; however, a small victory was also realized when the delegates to the Constitutional Convention agreed to halt the importation of slaves into the U.S. in 1808.

From 1808 onward, the history of the abolitionist movement grows more familiar to those who study history.  Small victories such as the Missouri Compromise of 1820 regulated the spread of slavery in the western territories.  However, major defeats such as the Dred Scott decision and Fugitive Slave Law were also endured.  Nevertheless, the purveyors of the movement did not tire out or lose interest.  They realized that the great struggle for liberty is a long contest with victory assured to those who stand the test of time.  The great payoff came in 1863 with the passage of the Emancipation Proclamation and in 1865 with the passage of the 13^th Amendment to the Constitution. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind about the current Tea Party movement:

• Patience is key – It took 177 years for slavery to be officially outlawed in the United States.  Real change does not come quickly.  The torch must be carried day after day and those advancing the cause must realize that by doing their part, they are ensuring greater liberty for future citizens.
• Stick to the fundamentals – members of a movement must have a sound strategy, they must be diligent to communicate the message, and they must realize that victory often occurs in increments.
• Realize there will be setbacks – the road to slavery’s abolishment was filled with potholes and detours.  Participants in the Tea Party movement must find ways to navigate around them and continually advance the cause of limited government.
• Never give up – you may not see the ultimate victory in your lifetime.  However, it will never be won without steadfastness and ability to stay focused on the big picture.