Freedom?

I was on a drive recently, and in my thoughts I was stuck on the popular narrative that America is "a beacon of freedom," or the "leader of the free world."  And at those moments, I found these few sights that ... aroused my humor.  I can never be sure that you'll see them how I do, but I will make the leap.

"Stop here on Red."

 "Keep off Shoulder."

"One Way."

"Right Lane MUST Turn Right."

And so you must ask: "Freedom?  In what sense?"  The answer is some sort of illusory "well, you are free to pursue your dreams."

My answer is: "and all the routes to realize those dreams look surprisingly similar."