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I attended a poetry workshop in which the leader asked us to write using concrete images about an abstract idea. Ah, sometimes that is quite a challenge. Today, Holly asks us to reflect on Freedom for our Spiritual Thursday posts. Freedom is an abstract term that comes with all kinds of connotations.
What is the image of freedom?
The soaring eagle,
A couple in a convertible with the top down, wind in their hair,
praying hands,
a breaking wave on the shore of the sea,
a child on a swing, leaning back, legs high in the air,
or is freedom more complicated than that?
We look to our flag to symbolize our country’s freedom.
We look to words “All men are created equal.”
We look to God.
But our questions remain unanswered,
hanging there in the air of inequality,
oppression, discontent.
What is freedom, really?
What is the ultimate price?
When will we see the image of true peace?
Freedom is the laughter of a child,
the scent of jasmine on a summer walk,
a hug between friends.
Freedom is elusive and right in the palm of our hands.
We can embrace the word, hold fast to our convictions,
and fly the flag. But until the whole of humanity
lives in peace, freedom will not be free.
Your last four lines say it all! That’s the hard part.
Margaret, this is a lovely reflection on freedom.
Margaret, the thoughts you uttered poetically ring true. If only universal freedom was a reality but for now we need to continue to seek it a way that is doable in our lives. Thank you for this line that I shall take into my day: But our questions remain unanswered, hanging there in the air of inequality…
Thank you for this message of worldwide peace, Margaret. The image of the couple in the convertible made me smile — it reminded me of happy times.
Powerful words, Margaret especially:
“Freedom is elusive and right in the palm of our hands.”
and
“… But until the whole of humanity
lives in peace, freedom will not be free.”
We were discussing the abundant life at our small group last night and came to the conclusion that real abundance starts with one’s inner life. That’s what your line about freedom being in the palm of your hands suggests to me: Maybe true freedom starts not in our circumstances at all, but with our attitude and is, in a way, a choice.
Yes! That is exactly what I was trying to say. Freedom is a choice and we will not be totally free until we are at peace with who we are.