America is beginning to awaken from the slumber of taking political matters too lightly.

Freezing temperatures did not stop nearly 1,000 protesters from gathering in front of Michigan's Capitol on Saturday for the Greater Lansing Network against War in Iraq's "Solidarity Walk."

It also didn't stop the tens-of-thousands sized-crowd from an anti-war rally and march in Washington, D.C.

Many protesters made signs such as "Drop Bush, Not Bombs" and "Weapons of Mass Destruction, Who Used Them First?" to show their outrage against the conflict with Iraq.

The rallies, held on a weekend commemorating Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the start of the Gulf War in 1991, prompted many to use King's values of nonviolence and unity as a way to promote peace.

Speakers' topics at the rally were mixed, ranging from how Iraqi citizens would be affected by a war, President Bush's determination to take control of oil in the country and how millions of U.S. dollars should be spent on improving poverty and schools in the United States instead of beefing up military campaigns.

Americans who disagree with their government should let the government know.

Individuals who participated in the events exercised their freedom of speech to the fullest.

Standing in the bitter cold with signs showed they have a deep concern and belief in democracy and its principles.

Not only did they demonstrate their individual beliefs but represented our community in full force.

The most harmful thing anyone can do in a time of conflict is absolutely nothing.

Instead of sitting back and complaining about what they disagree with, protesters made their beliefs known to government officials and the public.

These rallies should not be the end. The weekend offered a good launching pad to an end of silence and apathy.

If people do not speak out, they are using the Constitution as toilet paper.