I agree we don't want it as uprisings as you describe. In no way should the people rise up in violence and bring down the boot of government on their throat -- that is what the left so desires.
I see the only viable option is for a number of States to get extremely determined and assert 10th Amendment rights. The States need to gut the Federal government's non-Constitutional powers. That would entail a number of States with leaders that have the Warrior mindset and drive, and constituents that overall back them.
Of course, I see no State leader that rises to that level. I fear the most likely path is down a decaying socialist hellhole. Our Republic will continue to decay at the hands of Statist government parasites. My reading of history convinces me that once Liberty is mostly gone, you can't "legislate" your way back to Freedom.
I dunno if it's really that bad yet. I think you're right, "legislation" always goes in one direction....restricting freedom.
"Education" recently has also headed us in that direction. But I'm certain it can work in the other direction too. Not sure how to get through to kids tho. Maybe the "Atlas Shrugged" movie this weekend will be a good hook?