NJ parks are not really open. The playgrounds are roped-off like crime scenes. There are several police vehicles posted around watching everyone. Creepy.

A couple friends and I took the kids out for much-needed exercise and fresh air. We got a kickball game going on an empty baseball field. We were spread apart and not touching one another.

A police officer came over and told us to leave. I respectfully reminded him that we are taxpayers with rights. He said that he understood but “he doesn’t make the rules.” I might have pushed further if not for the kids. I chose to model respect for authority (armed authority) than model standing up for my civil liberties.

But why, oh why, in America, should I have to make this choice?