Claiming Independence

The history of our independence is marked by the vote of the Second Continental Congress to approve a resolution of independence of the Thirteen Colonies from the Kingdom of Great Britain on July 2, 1776.

The following day, John Adams wrote his wife Abigail, “The second day of July, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”

Mr. Adams was correct on all counts regarding how future generations would celebrate independence in years to follow.  Unfortunately, Congress continued to debate the revision of Declaration of Independence, and the date it was declared was July 4, 1776. 

Regardless of the delay, John Adams predicted our recognition and celebration of our Independence with great clarity and hope.

Today, and every day since this historical event in 1776, Americans have held on to the idea of living free.  We are free in every aspect of the word. We are free to choose how to live, where to live, who to have as friends, where to work and where to worship.

We are free to choose our own opinions and ideas regarding any situation and we are free to choose our attitude toward anything and any one.

What will you do with this great responsibility of freedom?  How will you handle the idea that you are completely at choice?  There truly is no one and no thing that has provided the path to bring you exactly where you are today.  It has transpired in a series of decisions, choices and beliefs that are yours alone.

As this nation celebrates our independence this week, it is a perfect time for each of us to go within and consider our own concept of freedom.  What is taking place in your life that is impairing your ability to feel completely free?

For some it may be a job that seems to be going no where; or possibly working with someone who attempts to hold you small or confine your ability to shine.  It could be a relationship that tugs at your heart strings and prevents you from feeling the freedom of being loved and loving openly, honestly in return.

Maybe you are stuck in a financial bind with a house payment or bills that are tough to maintain.  Are you being managed by your situation or are you choosing to manage your life with the freedom of daily choice?

Wherever you are today, you can choose a different experience for tomorrow.  Each one of us was created at choice.  As we make new decisions, our circumstances change and offer more options.  There truly is nothing that can hold you back or hold you down, unless you have given your permission for this to take place.

My favorite quote from Victor Frankl states, “Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.”
Today we can all claim our independence.  We can choose new experiences for every moment of our lives.  Our forefathers gave their lives, energy and passion to the idea of freedom.  We, now live in this experience and can expand it into every facet of our lives - - if we choose.