Constitutional Question

I may be off base here, but my understanding of the Constitution is that unless something is specifically forbidden by the text of the document, it is Constitutionally protected. Until, that is, the legislature enacts an amendment or passes a law that prohibits such action. Doesn't that refer back to the pursuit of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness? Refer to Amendment 10 of the Bill of Rights:

Amendment X

The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the states, are reserved to the states respectively, or to the people.


It seems to me that a lot of people are very worked up over wanting Supreme Court judges appointed who will "interpret" the Constitution the same way they do. However, isn't the basic role of government to protect it's citizens, not intrusively enter the world of personal opinions and religious doctrine? Shouldn't that be left up to parents, ministers, churches, and not to "big brother"?

I for one don't feel that I need anyone in Washington D.C., regardless of their party affiliation, to decide for me what is morally decent or spiritually correct. I think my parents did a very good job of that in my youth, and I have tried my best to carry that into my adulthood. It reminds me a bit of a parent telling their child "as long as you live under my roof, you'll do what I say". If politicians are willing to foot the bill for my family's living expenses and totally support us financially, I'll go along with that concept. But as long as I'm expected to be a good citizen, work my butt off to support my family, pay my taxes on time, and be a person who treats others with respect, then I do not need anyone who feels they are morally superior to think for me or pass judgement for (or on) me.

Onward!