The first amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees us freedom of speech. Written over 200 years ago, it says that “Congress shall make no law ... abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble.” Edward abundantly exercises his freedom of speech.

I received a telephone call from him asking me to help him with his bills. One in particular had doubled from last year’s amount. He was distraught.

I don’t blame him for being upset, paying twice as much is disturbing. The company was within its rights to raise their prices. But doubling the cost seemed more like price gouging according to Edward.

I saw his point but I could offer him little solace. We talked about alternative ways to save money and about government assistance programs which help people with low and moderate incomes. This did little to comfort him, though.

He was a veteran, having served in the second world war. He felt he had defended his country in its time of need. Now he was disappointed and he had lost confidence in his country’s ability and desire to control the high cost of living.

I agreed with him that there are many older, and younger people, too, who are having a hard time being able to afford everyday expenses. But, I’m just one guy – how could I solve these issues?

Edward has a right to freedom of speech, and he uses it liberally. He has a right to express his disappointment and outrage at high prices.

He told me he didn’t have much faith in government officials assisting with these issues. I hope he’s wrong. Maybe we’re all a little cynical these days.

Cynical or not, we still have our Constitutional rights. For over 200 years our Constitution has guaranteed us freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and the right to peaceably assemble, among others.

I’m sure that Edward will continue to express himself in order to try and change a few things. He’ll use his freedom of speech to complain and ask for changes. An important lesson to remember I’d say.

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