He cut our electricity, slashed our tires, and waited outside (with a gun). Thankfully, a neighbor called the police.
I was just 9 years old.
The man? My mom’s soon-to-be ex-husband (and my soon-to-be ex-stepfather). This wasn’t the only time something like that happened.
Why am I telling you this?
Because I grew up feeling like a caged bird, forced to confront the worst in humanity. It’s why school became my “thing,” why I decided to become a lawyer, and why freedom became one of my most important values.
For me, freedom trumps equity and fairness.
Every day. All day. Forever.
Which brings me to: the truth about freedom.
This week, we celebrate the birthday of the United States, a country founded on freedom. I worry we’ve lost touch with what freedom really means.
It’s not just about your right to speak, worship, protest, or express yourself.
With freedom comes responsibility.
Responsibility for your actions. Responsibility for your choices. Even responsibility for your emotions.
Because true freedom means others have those same rights. Which means you must be willing to:
Have your beliefs challenged.
Be appalled by someone else’s views.
Feel triggered by someone else’s choices (and/or beliefs).
Freedom requires openness to discomfort. If you let it, it builds resilience.
Make no mistake—this is hard.
But in my opinion? It’s more than worth it.
So tell me, Friend…
Do you value freedom?
If yes, ask yourself what you’re willing to pay for it.
XO,
Heather
