Freedom is the condition of not having any restraints. That means you can do whatever you choose to do without anyone or anything interfering or forcing control over you. Being free is a wonderful feeling and the best way of life.
In the United States of America, July 4th is called Independence Day. It is set aside to commemorate the adoption of the Declaration of Independence which is when the United States declared independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. We are no longer ruled by a King or Queen. Instead, we are to be ruled by the people.
Freedom, however, has a cost.
I think that people often take freedom for granted or they misinterpret exactly what freedom means. Freedom isn’t the absence of responsibility or rules. Instead, freedom provides the opportunity of choice, but it doesn’t eliminate consequences of the choice.
The Choice – The Cost
Living in a free country allows us to have so many opportunities. Some of our choices include:
- Education
- The place we live
- Food we eat
- Mode of transportation
- Religion
- Number of children
- Friends
- Spouse, Companion, Partner
- Clothing style
- Music
- Hobbies
- Place of employment
- Pets
The list consists of just a few of the things where we extend our freedom of choice. Our right to choose comes with a high price. Every day there are men and woman who uphold our freedoms and defend our country. The people in our military serve our country with their time, talents, energy and too often, they also have given their lives.
On the other hand, there are also military people who are still living, but were wounded while protecting our freedoms. They return home without body parts or body parts that no longer work properly. We should all honor our military men and woman by recognizing the fact that it is because of their continued service that our country remains free.
My Final Thought
We have choices because we are free.
We have consequences because we make choices.
At this point, I realize that I have lived more than half my life already. A large part of my life now is the result of my past choices. Thankfully, I have made a lot more good than unwise choices. Although a few of my choices were doozies, I’ve learned from every experience. I also realize that my choices and consequences affect other people and that is why I try so hard to “get it right” even at the expense of myself.
Since I am on the edge of a new chapter in my life, today I look back with thankfulness that I am me. I have freely given my time, talents, money and love to my daughter. I am grateful for all the opportunities this country afforded me while raising Alyssa. As Alyssa spreads her wings to become independent, I hope that she will make wise choices and always appreciate the wonderful gift of freedom.
May God always bless my friends, family and this wonderful land that I love…America the Beautiful.
Mom will be first today. Thank you for your post. It was touching. I know Alyssa will leave on her own soon, but I pray she will learn she had the best mom ever. I know you are because you have been mine at terrible times of my life. I always envied Alyssa and Brittany for having you as their mother. I used to think, “I hope they know how blessed they are.” I love you My Sherry
Thanks. I’m glad you enjoyed it. I love you too.
I enjoyed dreading your thoughtful post on freedom…Happy Independence Day!
Thank you, Teresha!!! I hope you have a great day with your beautiful children and hubby!
Especially excellent post. From the short time that I have read your work, which I have no doubt comes from the heart, your Alyssa will be a strong, rationale and kind young woman. Consider her foundation! Should the time comes that she needs a heart and soul to lean on, yours are very capable and totally up to the task.
As for the point you make in freedom having consequences. I wish more people would be held accountable. Changes are much needed in that area. Don’t get me started and I’m not laughing.
On a much brighter note, I hope you, your family and friends have a relaxing and fun 4th.
God bless our country!
Thank you, Susanne! I hope you have a wonderful 4th as well and stay cool!!!
We are all glad that you are you, & I’m sure Alyssa appreciates all that you’ve given her.
As for freedom: few words, few concepts are so poorly understood or so much abused as the word & concept ‘freedom’! Far too many take it to mean ‘license’ or ‘carte blanche’ – total removal of regulations, limitations, or barriers. But as Susanne said, don’t get me started.
I hope everyone has a wonderful Independence Day – not too hot, no fires, no floods… with family if you have them, or with friends. I close with words to ponder from the great Walt Kelly classic comic strip Pogo. In the words of the philosopher, Porkypine: “Did you realize that our country’s first holiday is the fourth?”
Lovely thoughts, Skip. Thank you. I hope you had a wonderful 4th as well!