Independence Day
What is Freedom really about?
With the arrival of the 4th of July holiday in the U.S. - Independence Day - I started thinking about what independence really means.
From the time we are babies, we begin trying to do things on our own as soon as we can crawl. As adolescents and teens, we dream of the time when we can be independent from our parents, whether it's picking out our own clothing, driving a car, or getting our own apartment. We believe that with autonomy we are FREE to do as we want.
Self-sufficiency is a good thing - it gives us a sense of being able to control our own destiny. It's important to be able to handle basic tasks like cooking, cleaning, and managing our money. It feels good to make choices about where we live, the work we do, how we spend our time.
In reality, this idea of "self-rule" is limited. As children we still depend upon our parents for sustenance and care. As adults we rely on a structured society of some sort. Otherwise, how would we have banks, schools, hospitals, and roads? On a broader scale, even our country is part of a greater world community. The pandemic has proven that beyond a doubt.
Interdependence means that we need each other, that we want and act toward what's good, not just for ourselves, but for our whole society. There is a balancing act between our personal wants/needs and the needs of those around us. (Balance - see how I worked yoga in there wink wink?)
I hope that you give that some thought as you hear fireworks this weekend, or if you watch the news. We are all connected.
Stay safe, be well,
Eva