Gratitude For Freedom

For those that have had freedom their entire lives, it’s often tough for them to understand how fortunate they are to be in such a position. Unless you have personally experienced a loss of your freedom, you think that everyone has similar experiences to you. That’s simply not the case, but it’s understandable why many people think that way. Make sure to not take the freedom you have for granted.

As the 4th of July is a time to celebrate freedom in America, it’s important to keep that at the forefront of celebrations. Yes, setting off fireworks and enjoying the holiday and this time of year is great (as long as you do so safely), but make sure that you take some time to remember what freedom gives to you, and spend some time teaching your children about what freedoms they enjoy.

Every person is going to have different things that are important to them, but as a parent it’s truly awesome that we have the freedom to raise our children how we see fit as long as they are safe. I can raise my child to believe in God, or I can choose to raise my child without any religion at all. I can raise them with a belief that they can do whatever they put their mind to, and that there are few limitations that they can’t overcome.

There are countries and places all over the world where these types of freedom simply don’t exist. You don’t control what you hear or who your leader is or even where you live. You may not be able to choose who you love and who you marry and whether or not you get to stay with the person you marry or not. You may not even be able to keep your own kids - women are simply used to make children.

Showing gratitude for the freedom that you enjoy is extremely important. Don’t take freedom for granted and don’t act so entitled as if you’re better than someone else simply because you enjoy more freedom than they do. You never know when your freedom may be taken from you or when you may need the help of someone else. Be humble and grateful for the freedom that you enjoy, and fight for others to have it.

Make sure your children understand how lucky they are to live in a place where they also are free to make many of the choices that they make. Sure, they may not love the rules that you set in place, but teach them that the rules are about keeping your child safe, and not simply about control over them (make sure your rules aren’t just about control). Your child can understand this concept if you teach them.

Show gratitude to those who have served in the military. The men and women who serve in the military make it possible so that we can continue to enjoy the freedom that we have. Military life is not easy for anyone involved. There are many sacrifices that they make in order to serve, and without some of the wars that have gone on before, we wouldn’t be where we are today. Express gratitude for their service.

Freedom is such an awesome gift that we are able to enjoy. Don’t ever take it for granted.