What Does Independence Mean to You?
Photo from Canva
As we celebrate Independence Day in the US, I recognize that this holiday and the word ‘independence’ means something different to everyone. Access to independence is not available to all. Even the ability to depend on someone has different connotations and emotional charge.
To me, independence means being able to physically move around, carry my laundry basket up the stairs, lift my great nieces and nephews in the air, having balance. Being free to be who I am. Being able to take care of myself. Having the clear ability and choice to make my own decisions. Earning money. Doing what I love. Believing in what matters to me.
Living with dignity and safety.
Much of this I’m able to have control over; some of it depends on others, the outside world, and our government.
I choose to focus on what I can control.
Some of what I have been able to do may have shifted as I age. I no longer do jumping tornado kicks–the first time didn’t work out so well anyway! But I lift weights and exercise to stay limber and strong.
With each new chapter in my life, my sense of independence shifts just as who and what I depend on.
Knowing what you have control over is a form of independence. Independence of thought, action, belief.
Depending on someone is also a form of independence.
Some prompts to consider when thinking about your independence:
When you think of your independence, what has shifted, changed, stayed the same?
What do you have control over?
On a physical, emotional, spiritual, or political level?
What would you still like to do?
What are you not able to do or choose not to do anymore?
Can you shift or change something to be able to do it again?
If not, how will you mourn/come to terms with that?
What did you love about doing it or that part of your life?
How did it feel?
What else could give you that feeling?
Who could you depend on to help you to continue that independence?
Is there a tool, gadget, technology that could expand that independence?
What does it mean to you to depend on another?
How does it feel?
What can you do to maintain independence however you perceive it?