Freedom

Happy Fourth of July, Everyone!

As I hear the fireworks from my room, I reflect for the first time on what this day truly means.  Yes, of course, I've been aware that the 4th marks independence of this country.  I'm thankful for those that stood up for what they believed.  While this nation is not perfect, as I have experienced, it still represents the indomitable spirit against all odds.  In many ways, I see that time period as a sort of David and Goliath story, as the underdog prevailed to free his people from oppression.

What I'm talking about is personal freedom beyond that of living in "the land of the free and the home of the brave".  There are many that will go to work tomorrow and return to an existence they are not happy with.  The saddest thing is that nothing will be done about it and they will fade from this Earth, not knowing true freedom.  What life is it to live day after day, year after year and not progress?  I cringe sometimes when I ask, "How's everything?" and the person replies, "Oh, same old" or something like that.

I'm so happy and grateful that I am at least aware of what needs to change in order to progress.  This is the beginning of true freedom and true happiness.  In the Declaration of Independence there is a phrase "the pursuit of happiness".  Anyone who has achieved a certain level of concrete success understands this: the actual pursuit IS happiness.  To progress in life's journey is to move forward and help as many people as possible along the way.  This is what it means to enjoy our lives and experience life's lessons, so that we can leave the world better than we found it.

Now some people are NOT interested in this quest for freedom, thus true happiness.  That's fine by me.  However, there is a grave statistic that records over 90% of those lying on their deathbed regret not taking the risks necessary to make life truly meaningful for them.  This is not to say that they don't cherish their loved ones and the good they may have done.  It's just too obvious from this survey that what is "normal" doesn't pay true dividends to the soul in the end.