By Vincent L. Guarisco

"Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer." ~~Sun-tzu

I know it has not been easy all these years enduring the many dramatic events and horrific imbalances thrust upon us at home and abroad. There's no denying that our nation is undergoing tremendous changes (almost daily) in how we navigate through this mess. Regardless, we must dig in for the long haul; we must remain calm and open-minded. So, let's take a deep breath, take a step back, clear our heads, evaluate the situation and wise-up for the greater good of everyone involved.

I wish I had a magical etch-a-sketch board that can systematically erase all the evil that constantly rocks our world, but unfortunately, I do not. I can't do it alone, but together... we can clean the slate and level mountains! It is what it is, and -- unless we change course -- that sharp Orwellian sword will keep stabbing us in the back at every twist and turn, pushing us down the multinational gangplank (over the edge) until the sinister ones control every single aspect of our lives.

The gluttons have played their terrorist hand, and those of us paying attention now know for sure that a bullet does not have to be chambered nor leave the barrel to inflict a wound. If you get that, then you're thinking along the right lines and should understand the purpose of "Psychological Warfare." Indeed, mental assimilation is the goal in this department. Our oppressors know full well that, if you control the space between the lobes of enough weak-minded souls, you can control the world. Welcome to land of mind control. A very dry place where brain-pans turn to dust.

It was Sun Tzu who originally said that the best kind of victory was one in which you never have to fight. This is true. In fact, many origins of psychological manipulation originate from books like Sun Tzu's Art of War and Niccolo Machiavelli's The Prince.

I strongly recommend you read these books to get a better understanding of what we're up against. Our situation today is not just filled with forked tongues, twisted words, misdirection, fearful influence tactics, subliminal persuasion, and other contemptuous mind games that attempt to fulfill every whim of the proverbial Prince. The reality on the ground is much more aggressive and way more reprehensible than one can imagine...Yes, we are fully infiltrated and entangled with prolonged war under our heels, brutal terrorist acts (think Boston) and state-sponsored intrusions that will only get worse as time goes on as they strive to achieve the desired effect: Fear, servitude and compliance. The intentions are clear; our self-indulgent masters of the universe know all-too-well that we have become desensitized to their skull-and-bone drudgery (such as 9/11), so future killing sprees will, in all likelihood, be more brutal and sensational in order for them to remain at the top of the food chain.

Indeed, our leaders and news media clowns all try to convince us that "The terrorists hate us for our freedoms." But those of us who did our homework know better. You can't have a foreign policy objective that dictates marching around the globe with jackboots taking (by force) whatever you want to satisfy stockholders, without some blow-back. The world has had enough. They are sick and tired of us sending in our economic hitmen, our drone strikes, our wars of choice, rendition and all the torturing, etc...

Besides, what is left to be jealous of in America? We have already lost so much freedom. Let's take inventory: After 9/11, the Patriot Act of 2001, the Military Commission Act of 2006, the Citizens United v. Federal Election decision of 2010, the NDAA resolution of 2012 and CISPA is currently headed for the Senate. And this is just the short list which equals (((disaster))) for the U.S. Constitution.

Do not give up! We will prevail.

I have faith in the human spirit. I truly believe we can stop the madness. Let's be movers and shakers -- game changers -- and reclaim our lives, our honor and save the world a whole lot of misery:

It is critical to understand that, although we have many things in common, each of us is sovereign and special in our own unique way. We must be in control of our own destiny -- not be tricked into doing something that is not in our best interest to do. We are not for sale and we are not 21st century slaves to be exploited! We must take pride in being independent thinkers who're capable of maintaining a critical thought process. And be cautious of the group-think trapazoids. It can often be toxic unless united under one common banner for truth and liberty for all. Whenever possible, we must be creative and think outside the box to create our own innovated ideas... and more important, share them with others!

Never take anything at face value. Turn off the TV. Do not believe the lying mainstream news media. We must do our own research and find the truth no matter what road it takes us on. Understand that most politicians, legislators and established institutions do not represent our best interests. Be aware that most of them represent the corporate power structure -- the same entities that are working overtime to manipulate us, the majority of citizens of this great country. Take stock of your own personal inventory (own it!) and just as equally important -- always remain in control of your emotional responses in virtually everything happening outside or within your inner circle. This is a winning passport for avoiding manipulation on many fronts.

Also, we must take pride in who we give our hard-earned money to. Avoid banking institutions and support local businesses whenever possible. Avoid the big chains, even if it costs a little more to do so. Avoid using credit -- get out of debt -- living beyond our means not only is a bad idea, it gives those who keep us in debt an advantage. All of us should be active participants in our communities. Run for local city hall positions and build a better community for all by joining and being active in grassroots action networks.

We must organize at work and stand-up for worker's rights. Demand a living wage from employers and tell them we want the same benefits that executives are afforded. Help them understand that the old school philosophy that made this country great does truly work -- that workers who are treated fair are much more reliable and productive, which in turn prospers the entire company as a whole.

I know it's tough out there, but we must understand that we are all in this together, and should strive to be active in any way possible. I would hate to see us become serfs on our own soil. The message is clear: In order to combat the constant onslaught of psychological warfare, we all need to take care of each other. May we create a better world filled with peace and prosperity and God bless us all...

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Author's Bio: Vincent L. Guarisco is a freelance writer from Arizona, a contributing writer for many web sites, and a lifetime founding member of the Alliance of Atomic Veterans. The 21st century, once so full of shining promise, now threatens to force countless millions of us at home and abroad into a dark abyss of languishing poverty and silent servitude; a lowly prodigy of painful struggle and suffering that could stream for generations to come. I'm wishing for a miracle, before it is too late, the masses will figure it out and will stand as one and roar. So, pass the word -- it's past time to take back what is ours -- the American Dream where the pursuit of happiness, the ability to live in a free and peaceful nation is a reality. We bought it, and we paid for it. It's time to take it back.