When I think of the 4th of July, I think of it as Independence Day and a day to celebrate our freedom.
Independence for me means that I am free from control of others. I can direct my own life and handle my own affairs. I can decide who I am now and who I want to be in the future. I can take control of my own future. I am extremely thankful for this independence and realize that not everyone around me is as fortunate.
That does not mean I don’t want to be connected to others in my personal and business life. I love the influence from those who care about me. But, in the end, it is my choice.
I have sufficient independent means to live comfortably. I am so fortunate to live in a country that allows me to experience that independence.
Freedom means that I can take full advantage of all the possibilities before me. I can make choices. There is not one answer for everything. I am open to taking many paths. I have the ability to try new things.
I am also responsible for my actions and do not blame others when things go wrong. I accept the responsibility and just try my best to correct any mistakes I make as I go along.
When I taught my special education classes I always said that with every freedom or right, you have a responsibility or consequence. You are fully responsible for your own actions and for the consequences of those actions. You must respect the rights and beliefs of others.
Eleanor Roosevelt wrote: “Freedom makes a huge requirement on every human being. With freedom comes responsibility. For the person who is unwilling to grow up, the person who does not want to carry his own weight, this is a frightening prospect.” Wow! Is that ever meaningful now.
Have a happy and safe 4th of July!