The word independence by definition means “Freedom from control or influence of another”. In the introduction of the book, “Fourth of July orations, 1853-1856″, the author opened with the following statement:
“There are various reasons why the celebration of the Fourth of July is a matter of peculiar interest to every citizen of Boston. This place was particularly marked, during the scenes preceding the American Revolution, by the love of liberty herein manifested, and the spirit of resistance never wavered during all the events of our great struggle. No little credit belongs to Boston for hastening forward the contest with the Mother Country, and praise is also due to her for having remained true to the cause of American Liberty, till it was confirmed by the Treaty of Peace in 1783.”
The love of Liberty herein manifested – what a great statement. We were not given this appreciation, it is something we manifested. It was our own creation, a belief practiced and reinforced through our actions, and our love of liberty sustained because we clearly saw its value.
What does the fourth of July and Independence day mean to us today? Has it diminished to the point of being just a holiday, a day to take off from working? Where is the appreciation of the original meaning or reason for this holiday?
“The light of this anniversary flashes back upon the years that have intervened since the Declaration of Independence, and exhibits the past in contrast with the present”. These words were published in 1853, over 150 years ago, yet they speak so truly of our dilemma today.
It is a sad truth that over time many things lose their meaning. We try our best to retain the meaning, but we are not intended to dwell in the past. But what about this occasion, what about the meaning and purpose behind Independence Day and the Fourth of July?
We live in times when our freedom is constantly challenged by both external forces and those we have elected to protect us. Perhaps we are wrong to dwell upon the actions of others, and the individual challenges. Should we instead see this conflict between the original meaning of the Independence Day and our current state of affairs as a sign?
Freedom is a God given right, but because it originates from that source it is subtle in its nature. We typically think of freedom only when it is challenged. Could it be that the attempts by others to take away our freedom is the very tool we need to retain that freedom? This idea does not condone the actions of others in any respect. Instead I look at it as a reminder for us to take steps each day to stay conscious on every level; and let the intrusions on our personal rights serve as a reminder that we are capable of standing tall in our divine presence, despite our challenges. Today is a celebration of our Independence day, and we can use this day as an opportunity to appreciate our personal, individual independence.
Author and spiritual counselor Estee Taschereau offers individual sessions focusing on recognizing our divine presence and incorporating our higher purpose more gracefully into our day-to-day lives. “My intent is to offer a gateway to consciousness, offering many perspectives through my writings at Mayan Daily Insight and other venues”.
