What is freedom?
The idea of freedom sits at the core of the American experiment. Few countries in America are actually committed to this concept. Many broken democracies are ruled by thugs and corrupt politicians; others are not democracies at all. I think Canada may be the only country that affords freedom to its citizens.
You see, freedom is increasingly a luxury. One that only wealthy people can enjoy. And when I talk about wealthy, I mean FU money. Money that buys you all the systems you need to ensure you and your family’s survival for years to come. The vast majority of people are not at that level.
Do each of us must strive to achieve freedom through wealth? I don’t think so. Achieving freedom through wealth accumulation implies there are no other avenues to secure it. If your passion is to teach kindergarten, for example, then your are likely destined to be ruled by the elites and shackled by poverty (or low standards of living - unless you already belong to the privileged class). People should be free to chose their occupation, but at what cost?
As one of my daughters asked: Why do teachers earn so little if they are so important? All my answers pointed to a broken system. Freedom is important; it’s a right. The exercise of freedom is currently a privilege and not recognized by the leaders of society as such.
What can we do to act on our right to freedom? One immediate step is to practice cooperation and solidarity within our surrounding. Is to find ways to build communities that fend off the assault on our freedoms by employers, merchants and elitist politicians. We must embrace each other and remove hierarchy, replacing it with understanding, skill and learning. One has the capacity to learn at any age. Be a contribution. Add to your network and demand from it. Stay away from tempting distractions that siphon away your money and your freedom (looking at you Instagram) and regain control of your environment. Contemplate what is before you with fresh eyes, thinking that you define your world, which is shaped by the existence of others. Be resolute in knowing yourself and your deepest most genuine desires. This is your life. You are the only one living it. You own your destiny. (Wrote this on mobile - sorry for typos)