Speak

Freedom of speech is not unrestricted,
Contrary to public misperceptions.
Obscenity, time, and place constricted,
Per the Supreme Court’s stated exceptions.

The First Amendment is oft misquoted,
Just hold on now, let us get something straight.
Boundless freedom is wrongly promoted,
Impeding free speech applies to the state.

Violent protest is not protected,
Private employers may set their own rules.
A vital mistake seldom corrected,
Making those who deride appear the fools.

Constitutional rights do have degrees,
People cannot always speak as they please.

“If the freedom of speech is taken away then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter.” ~ George Washington