The Value of the Constitution
3 REASONS THE CONSTITUTION EXISTS
Within the Articles of Confederation, Congress didn’t have the power to enforce laws and was only allowed to collect funds from each state. State governments held the majority, which made the federal government weaker. This led to states fighting over territory, war pensions, and taxation, all of which could potentially destroy the country. These issues led to the Constitutional Convention of 1787, which helped create the Constitution that we have today. You might be surprised to learn that a body of water — and other concerns — helped draft the document. Separate State Currencies Unlike today, the Confederation Period didn’t have a common currency. The federal
government and the states had separate money. This separation made trade between states and other countries extremely difficult. Due to different currencies, Congress couldn’t print out money for the entire country to use. Fortunately, the Constitution established a common currency for all states and also allowed Congress to coin money and regulate its value. The Erie Canal Within the Articles of Confederation, each state managed the territory that lies within their state lines. George Washington wanted to use the Erie Canal as a form of transportation but couldn’t because the canal was in New York territory. He needed permission from New York in order to use the canal. But with the development of the Constitution, the Erie Canal was managed
by the federal government. Washington could then use the canal as a form of transportation into the rest of the continent. No Judiciary or Executive Branch There was only one branch for Congress, and each state had one vote in order to get laws passed. If Congress wanted to pass any laws, they needed 9 out of 13 states in order to approve it. Requiring this high majority made it difficult to pass any legislation. The Constitution divided the government into branches and gave certain powers to each branch, known as checks and balances. The first attempt at a constitution — the Articles of Confederation — failed, but with some adjustments and ratifications, the Constitutional Convention created the document we still use today.
You’re Not Alone On Your Journey THE HOPEMYSMILEMAKEYOUSMILE ORGANIZATION
Mental health is surrounded by stigma. As a result, you may not feel comfortable talking about it because of how you will be perceived. But at HopeMySmileMakeYouSmile, you can freely talk about your feelings in any way that makes almost anyone feel comfortable. This organization is a nonjudgmental center dedicated to educating individuals about mental health issues that people struggle with every day. Sandra Roldan Pines, the founder and CEO, created HopeMySmileMakeYouSmile to provide a safe place for individuals to talk about mental health topics such as suicide, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and grief. Her son, Justin, committed suicide on May 17, 2020, at the age of 31. This devastating experience inspired her to take action and create an organization to destigmatize conversations about mental health. She took this traumatic incident and created a positive outlet for others.
Sandra is a certified mental health first aid instructor (MHFA) and can provide you or a loved one with tools to help you during your time of need. As an MHFA, Sandra knows all about the signs and symptoms of specific illnesses such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, bereavement, and addictions. HopeMySmileMakeYouSmile also provides free one-on-one talk sessions, group counseling, seminars, and interviews. The courses will help you understand the signs of mental illnesses and provide an overview of treatments using role- playing and simulations. If you’re struggling, these demonstrations can help you assess your mental health crisis, select interventions, and connect with professionals and self-help resources. Go to HopeMySmileMakeYouSmile.org for more information about the organization, virtual sessions, and hotline numbers.
At these free virtual meetings, you can share your feelings freely and get help if you need it. Mental health is something everyone struggles with — you’re not alone on your journey. HopeMySmileMakeYouSmile’s resources are ready to assist you with anything you’re battling, and they can help guide you to the care and support you need.
You can always reach Kevin directly at 404.566.8964 or Kevin@PatrickTrialLaw.com. (If you ever need it, his cell phone is 404.409.3160.)
2 • KEVINPATRICK.LAW I 404.566.5880
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