Freedom!

Freedom!

There seems to be an ongoing argument throughout history as to what freedom means. Presently, here in the United States, and within many democracies throughout the world we are now witnessing a debate over freedom of choice, freedom of speech, freedom of religion and freedom to hold a contrary opinion. While the fact, that we can have these discussions is positive, the reality our voices are being shut down due to peer pressure, and this is not a positive path to take. One of the most direct quotes in terms of freedom, comes from C. Wright. Mills. Mills, was a professor at Columbia University between 1946-1962 and he said, “Freedom is not merely the opportunity to do as one pleases; neither is it merely the opportunity to choose between set alternatives. Freedom is, first of all, the chance to formulate the available choices, to argue over them -- and then, the opportunity to choose.”

Personally, we consider Mill’s definition to boil down to, the freedom of thought. The Psalmist, writes about the same principle when he said,  “I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts.” (Psalm 119:45) Here, the Psalmist’s quote refers to choosing God and His path, however what is important, is the freedom to choose and then, engage. The question for us is, are we following the same path today?

It is essential that we do, for our futures as independent thinkers and individuals are based upon it. While not all our choices have been, or may be positive, we also have the freedom to correct them. Thereby, our growth is always in front of us. Consequently, freedom equates to “life” and we must ensure religiously, philosophically, personally and in practice that this remains. While, the work may be difficult, the outcome is paramount to our and future generations freedom!