Though Mr. Franklin spoke this of government, it applies to all relationships.
Freedom:
- the power to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint
- the power of self-determination attributed to the will; the quality of being independent from faith and necessity
The freedom to fully be myself is a realization of this relationship between Us that has literally brought me to tears at times. That I’ve never once felt judged or less than, coupled with the knowledge that I do have choice is itself freedom. Never have i felt the need to alter who I am to please Him. Simply who. I. am. is enough. I love Him for Him. Not some idea of Him. He is who he appears to be - genuine, sincere, loving. The choice I make on a daily basis is not a difficult one thus far. He encourages me to be me and to further explore me.
Restraint only creates a false sense of security. If I am free to choose and have the ability to explore all options, then I know the person I do choose is special. I find the same strength in questioning all of my beliefs. Through the exploration and then armed with the knowledge of the alternatives, I can discover and strengthen what I believe. If I blindly believe something, then I’m only ignorant. The freedom of choice gives great power.
Fear suppresses exploration of each other. Of others. Of ourselves. If we're scared of losing each other, threatened by someone else, something else, by ourselves, then we'll never reach the infinite potential we have. As individuals. Together. Through exploration, we gain insight to make an informed decision.
We are free. Free to choose each other. Or not. Free to explore other people. Or not. Free to love. To be loved.
Freedom.
