Thank you to my friend, Joni Palita, for the evocative photo and inspiring quotes. Plenty to think about as we celebrate the 4th of July in these interesting times.
“True patriotism springs from a belief in the dignity of the individual, freedom and equality not only for Americans but for all people on earth.” — Eleanor Roosevelt
“Those who deny freedom to others, deserve it not for themselves.” ― Abraham Lincoln
“The function of freedom is to free someone else.” ― Toni Morrison, Nobel Peace Prize for Literature
Today was the quietest 4th of July we’ve experienced in decades! Last year we were celebrating Ananda’s 50th anniversary on July 4th, so that was an especially huge celebration. But there’s almost always some variety of parade and games and special meal, with lots of fun and laughter.
This year, of course, we’re still physical distancing, so….no games, no parade, no eating together. And I haven’t even heard any fireworks (so far at least).
In this peaceful, quiet space I find myself reflecting on what it is to be “independent”. I think being truly “free” requires non-attachment. And that brings to mind the chant Nayaswami Maria spoke about earlier in the week…
I AM FREE by Swami Kriyananda I own nothing, I am free! In myself I am free. I own no one, I am free! In myself I am free.
I need nothing, I am free! In myself I am free. I need no one, I am free! In myself I am free.
In myself I am free! In myself I am free! I am free, ever free! In myself I am free.
I am joyful, ever free! In myself I am free. I am blissful ever free! In myself I am free.
I am nameless, ever free! In myself I am free. I am formless, ever free! In myself I am free.
This is the independence I aspire to!
Wishing you peace and inner freedom this 4th of July!🗽
