Freedom Isn't Free

Sitting around a campfire last night we talked about what Independence Day meant to each of us. Freedom was the resounding call, as well as hot dogs, hamburgers and fireworks of course. Let Freedom Reign. But what is freedom? Websters states that free is something not bound or controlled, without obstructions, without charge and that freedom is the condition of being free. I wonder if I am really free or if my own self imposed limitations and fears hold me back.

I have about 23 more chickens to harvest. Big fat, white, wobbly legged meat birds that never leave the chicken house even though I open the door each morning. Sometimes they will sit at the opening and gaze at the field beyond and they seem to enjoy the sun's rays on their faces. But they don't venture out. They are happier staying where they feel safe; close to their food and water. If only I could tell them of all the bugs they would find and the soft silty dust for a bath that waits beyond the door. Am I like these birds? Are we, as a people, like these birds?

We may say we have freedom today. And we do. Just like my chickens. But freedom isn't free. It takes some action on our part I think. It takes risk. It was a huge gamble when our founding fathers declared our independence from jolly old England. I don't think today I would take the same risk. And that worries me.

Happy Independence Day!