History, Humility, and the 27th Amendment © 1998 Joe Murray I have a confession to make. I made a temporary fool of myself yesterday. I was browsing the web and looking for something to write about besides the depressing news making the headlines -- nuclear proliferation aided by the questionable, if not treasonous, policy of the Clinton Administration -- when I found an interesting web page. This page was dedicated to teaching about the US Constitution and American history. For as long as I can remember, I have had a fascination with American history and politics. When I read a book or magazine, it is usually about history or politics. My formal education centered around the same subjects with three related degrees. I am a news hound who actually enjoys watching Nightline or 60 Minutes. I think it is safe to say that I can claim expertise in American history and civics. Throw in my worthless ability to recite sports records, names and strategy for hours and, if nothing else, I am a formidable foe in a game of Trivial Pursuit. Returning to the civic web site, I was incensed when it said there were 27 amendments to the US Constitution. Both my high school and college teachers in government, as well as my law professors, had drilled me to know that there are 26 amendments to the Constitution. I can almost recite them verbatim and actually explain what they mean. To double check, I pulled out the most recent book I had with a copy of the Constitution. Sure enough, it said there are 26 amendments. Instead of looking further on this web site, I sent an email saying: "Last time I looked there were only 26 amendments to the Constitution." I, then, looked further on the web site and, sure enough, there was the proof that there is a 27th amendment to the United States Constitution. It was ratified on May 7, 1992. I may be the only fool who missed this historic event. I am sure that most high school and college students and many grade school students could have set me straight. I would also deserve some ribbing such as wondering whether I am going senile at the ripe old age of 33. For those of you who haven't taken a course in civics or missed this in the headlines in the last six years, the 27th amendment says, "No law, varying the compensation for services of the Senators and Representatives, shall take effect, until an election of representatives shall have intervened." In other words, Congress can't pass a pay increase that takes effect before an election takes place, giving the voters a chance to vote the guys out, if they don't think they deserved a pay raise. This amendment was proposed and sent to the states for ratification over 200 years ago, along with the Bill of Rights (first 10 amendments). It was finally ratified in the early 90's in response to anger over several big pay raises that Congress voted for itself. Yes, I did my homework. I spent an hour or more last night reading everything I could find about the 27th amendment. I did feel better when I came across a test about the Constitution that was designed for high school seniors and people studying to take the citizenship examination. I answered all 25 questions correctly. The test was supposed to be a recent one. However, I found a problem with one multiple-choice question that asked how many amendments there were. There was no choice for 27 amendments, but there was one for 26. Having learned a lesson in humility, I sent another e-mail admitting my ignorance and praising the efforts of the web site to inform people of our history and laws. I recently had been grumbling to myself about having to take two classes this summer to renew my teaching certificate. I still don't want to spend the money, but my little lesson in humility reminded me that there is always something we don't know and can always learn more. I now am looking forward to the opportunity to learn something new. Taking a class is a good way to expand your mind; but you can do it every day, if you make a commitment to try and learn something new. Here are a couple suggestions. Instead of watching reruns on television this summer, read a book, take a walk to observe the many wonders God provides us in nature or, if you are a parent, take the time to help your kids learn something new. The innocent curiosity of youth will further serve as an inspiration to reinvigorate and expand your own wisdom. More of us ought to take the ancient biblical example of King Solomon and pray for wisdom, above all else. For a refresher course on the Constitution and American history, click on the link below. |
