I wanted to wish a quick happy Independence Day to everyone whom it applies! Around here we’ve heard fireworks for days, and I’m sure there will be more to come. For the kids, it means lots of fireworks and food.
To me, Independence Day has an alternate meaning. According to Random House Dictionary, the definition of independence is:

Freedom from the control, influence, support, aid, or the like of others.

Think about it. The one thing we always have control over is our thoughts. No one can take them away from us. No matter what happens in our lives, we always have the freedom of our thoughts. I know that sounds easy for me to say, and trust me, there are many times I don’t follow my own advice. The funny thing about that is this:

When I worry about what others think and adapt my actions because of it, I most always end up regretting it. When we live our lives for others by doing what we think we should do or what we think will be approved of, we’re living inauthentic lives. No one can truly be happy when living for someone other than themselves.

I slip into this old pattern from time to time, only to regret it. (and the more I do it, the sooner I’m able to catch myself and move toward what I feel is authentic for me.)

I find I get the most pleasure and joy out of doing things that just feel right. When I do things that I feel I “should” be doing, I find I merely exist. When I do things that come from the heart, I find I truly enjoy life to the fullest.

What does freedom mean to you? Have you really thought about it? For me, living authentically has to do with helping others through my writing and sharing what I’ve learned. I come alive the most when I’m helping someone else “get it” for themselves.

What about you? I’d love to hear what freedom means in your life.

Update on what’s going on in my life (for those interested) -

For anyone who is on my mailing list, you are aware of what’s going on around here. For anyone who isn’t on my list, the scoop is this: my mother-in-law has been hospitalized for quite some time and has been going through surgery after surgery trying to save her leg.

The latest is this: they took her leg two days ago, so it’s going to be an uphill battle. I was very surprised when I went to the hospital yesterday after work and found her very coherent with good color. She doesn’t realize yet they took her leg. I’m getting ready to head up there now to see how she’s doing today.

Good thoughts and prayers are definitely welcome.

So, tying this into freedom, think about the freedom we take for granted in our daily lives and how quickly it can be taken away. Once again, I go right back to gratitude… How grateful I am for everything I have in my life, and the freedom I’ve been blessed with. I’m grateful for all of my readers as well. Thank you for sticking with me through everything. I promise to post more regularly, and not let the “stuff” keep me away.

Look for more frequent posts and if you haven’t signed up for my newsletter yet, sign up, get your free ecourse with it, and join in the fun. More to come soon………….