Fries

As we embark on celebrating this nation’s 250th anniversary, I reflect on whether freedom is real or just an illusion. Here are some of my thoughts: I have the freedom to choose my profession; however, I could be terminated without reason at the discretion of my employer. I have the freedom to own pets; however, the number of animals I am permitted to own is decided by local legislation. I have the freedom to have children; however, how I discipline and provide for them is deemed appropriate by the State. I have the freedom to opt out of employee insurance plans; however, I must prove coverage from another entity in order to do so. I have the freedom to drive a vehicle; however, traffic laws control how I am permitted to operate my vehicle. I have the freedom to join a credit union; however, I am subject to meet the organization’s criteria for membership. And the list could go on and on.

We all have many freedoms that have conditions attached to them which can suggest that freedom is merely an illusion. But allow me to consider freedom of behavior and response. I have the freedom to be kind or hateful. I have the freedom to speak words of encouragement or destroy someone with my tongue. I have the freedom to turn the other cheek or retaliate when I am wronged. I have the freedom to show mercy and grace or hold a grudge until I see fit. I have the freedom to regard others as more valuable than myself or place myself on a pedestal. I have the freedom to put healthy boundaries in place or succumb to the unhealthy behaviors of others. I have the freedom to act with integrity or act out of deception. I have the freedom to be authentic or hide behind a mask. I have the freedom to bless others or consider only my own needs and desires. I have the freedom to love unconditionally or subject others to conditions they must meet to receive my love. Again, the list could go on and on.

Just like beauty is in the eye of the beholder, I believe freedom is what we individually decide it is. There are many choices we make that are ultimately controlled by other entities. However, equally we make choices that we have complete control over. I am thankful for my freedom whether partial or complete. I am thankful for the Founding Fathers, the Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution. I am thankful that we all have the liberty to be what we are created to be. My passions and talents may not be the same as yours, but I believe that all our passions and talents are of equal importance. For myself, I find great freedom in kindness, forgiveness, mercy, grace, integrity, and authenticity. No one in this great country can take my freedom to offer these qualities to my fellow citizens. We have enough anguish in this nation, and I am exercising my freedom to express solace.

My goal in penning this column is to spark thought and reflection on what freedom means to you personally. We each harbor our own ideas and thoughts; thus, we should value and welcome diversity without judgment. I am honored to have written my own thoughts for this column and honored that you took the time to read it. More importantly, I pray my words ignite thought within your own mental space. This Fourth of July, I challenge you to share with others what freedom means to you. If anything, it could be a great conversation starter at your barbeque party. Have a safe and very blessed holiday weekend!