What few people understand is that the 1st Amendment protects speech only from interference by an official government body.

To have what so many define as "free speech" -- the right to say anything they damn please no matter who gets hurt or what may be consequences for others -- would be utter chaos.

Imagine free speech operating in the workplace, where everyone would be entitled to say anything whatever about their coworkers, bosses, or company secrets.

To have totally free speech on any subject matter would put this country into total chaos.

Bottom line, it comes down to this: you can't be PUT IN JAIL for your words (unless your words result in others committing violence). Period. That's it.