Freedom must be for all, or it will eventually not be for any. Are we heading that way? And so, I write this paper intending freedom “to be” for all. But words lead me to sentences, which lead to one paragraph and the next, and then, if space is left, to my usual Haiku. Let’s see where this takes me.
In my last paper, I briefly touch on Liberalism and Nationalism. I thank Google for assistance in keeping my definition brief. Brief is my style, so I often seek ways to help me write my one-page papers. What I wrote when I refer to these two isms I owe to Google. All you owe me is to allow me to share my thoughts with you. Also, I very much appreciate it when you share your thoughts with me.
So, freedom for everyone is my druthers. It is my way of being as a leader and teacher. I have always valued the uniqueness of a person and the special qualities that separated each from the other. As a matter of fact, I just flashed back to the gang I was part of growing up in Chicago. How different each of them was, and I see this so clearly now as I write. I knew it then and know it now.
“Respect” is a keyword, but a word is not enough. It must be “who I am and what I do” in my relationships with all I meet and relate to. It is why I love the term “dialogue” and, in particular, “Genuine Dialogue.” Freedom and respect should guide us not only when we communicate with a certain few, but we should endeavor to show genuine respect for all of humankind.
July 4th is so special when we use it to celebrate our own and each other’s personal freedom “to be.”
Happy 4th to you—So, be your unique being—”Free” is yours to be!
Sy
