Reflections on Freedom

We are born with the spark of freedom that burns brightly within all of us, no matter where we live geographically or what we may experience politically.

Freedom is the opportunity to do what we want, when we want and choose how we want to do it. It’s following that voice inside, no matter where it might lead and oft times walking to a different drummer. It is the ability to think our own thoughts and make our own choices. Collectively, freedom can be expressed as a small group or as a country, but it always starts within the mind and the heart of an individual.

Historically, most times when we think of freedom, we think of it as something we must “fight for and protect”, yet it is already an integral part of our being and a choice we get to make each day. When we look at freedom as something outside of ourselves or something that can be taken from us, freedom isn’t free and the price can sometimes be quite expensive.

To me, freedom isn’t the ability to carry a gun or protect our property, but rather, to tap into an inherent birthright that no one can possibly take away from us. One only has to look at history and to the stories of people like Mahatma Gandhi or Lech Welesa to realize the power we have inside that comes from the freedom of our own thoughts.

Conversely, we can live in a “free” country, yet be prisoners to our own thoughts as well.

It helps to remember that we are all free to think whatever we want to think, regardless of the positions or actions of others. No matter our circumstances, no one can control our thoughts but us. Others may try to influence our thoughts, and circumstances may attempt to sway them, but ultimately, no person, situation or circumstance has the power to influence our thoughts unless we grant them that privilege. This personal choice of being able to think whatever we choose is the ultimate freedom.

Today, as many are celebrating the independence of a nation, remember to also acknowledge and celebrate the freedom that you have as an individual to think whatever thoughts you choose. It’s not as difficult as you might think.

First, look at your thoughts and let go of those that no longer serve you and your goals.

Next, choose where you want to go in life and focus on that direction, ignoring the nay-saying or well-intentions of friends and family, remembering that YOU and only you have the freedom to choose your own thoughts and to follow your own dream. Remember also to be supportive of others by allowing them to think their own thoughts without criticism or oppression.

Lastly, express gratitude for the freedom of thought that allows you to create the world you desire, in all ways. Remember, you are free to think whatever you choose to think, so fill your mind with positive thoughts that are supportive to you, others and the world around you. Use your freedom of thought to create the world you desire.