Let Freedom Ring

One day I was walking alone and pondering my situation. I am out of work. I had become somewhat depressed and overwhelmed by the job search. I live in a big city and I should be able to find an opportunity that would match my passion for helping people. There are quite a few jobs listed…and there are many unemployed people in the same boat.

I have been given the chance, the freedom to look for work that will utilize my talents, education and experience. As I walked along in this park…I didn’t feel free. My feelings were more sad that I was now in a situation where my way of life could be threatened. I feel as if I am carrying a heavy yoke around my shoulders and I am in entangled in bondage. I may be making changes soon that might be painful and create even more loss. As I look at my surroundings, I see some homeless men still sleeping. One is on the park bench, another man curled in the doorway of the public restroom.

Am I going to find myself in their shoes…homeless? I am overwhelmed with dread at this thought.

I don’t want to think about this being my outcome. I have talked to everyone I can think of to get advice and ideas of the direction I should go. They have been very positive and helpful…they believe in me.

It is now 12 o’clock noon. I know this because the nearby church bell had begun to ring out twelve times. It caused me to look up just in time to see Old Glory, waving in the wind. As the bell rang out loud and clear…I paused and was transfixed on our flag. The blue with white stars, the red and white stripes…symbolizing my freedom. Freedom that came at a huge price.

It flies free today in front of me because of the many lives that have been given to keep it that way. Men, women and even children have died for the freedom of this country. I am reminded of the suffering, pain and loss that many have endured for me. All of my life I have been aware of this truth. I appreciate the men and women who have served and are still serving America in the armed forces.

I am blessed to live in a country where Freedom continues to Ring! I began counting my blessings and focusing on all the opportunities I have in that freedom. I immediately felt optimistic and happy for the adventure I have before me.

In Galatians 5:1, I am reminded of another freedom, ” Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.”

So Thanks all those in Service for America! Happy Independence Day! Let Freedom Ring!