Yesterday, July 4, 2013, was a day of independence for our country. Many of you celebrated with backyard BBQs, fireworks, friends and family. Despite all the fun, good times, laughter, food and beer...as a military spouse, it was always a time for my family to reflect on the real reason for our celebrations.
Why in 1776 did the United States of American declare their independence from our motherland? FREEDOM! Yes, freedom...so that we could escape the overly abundant taxes, worship in our own ways, enjoy freedom of speech, and basically become self-governed.
For the first time in many years, I was without family or friends to celebrate with this 4th of July. The day left me to contemplate the meaning of being independent and free.
free·dom
[free-duhm]
noun
2.
3.
the power to determine action without restraint.
4.
political or national independence.
5.
personal liberty, as opposed to bondage or slavery.
This quote from Louis D. Brandeis is enlightening. To be free (or survive), you have to have courage...courage to choose your battles, to take risks, to fight, and to have the integrity to endure whatever comes your way. You do NOT give up!
As a leukemia survivor, I have indeed declared my independence from cancer! People always said to me, "You're going to make it." I never asked "why me?" in the face of my diagnosis...but just always had a positive attitude, kept moving forward in each stage of treatment, and even afterwards. Just like our revolution against Britain, some battles were easier than others and some were tough. But the moment that you DECIDE to fight, is the moment that you begin to declare your independence and freedom from whatever it is that is holding you back.
So, if you haven't already...it's time to FIGHT! Give it your all...hope...pray...have faith...roll with the punches...and don't let cancer steal your FREEDOM! Happy Independence Day ~
Blessings,
Lisa
