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As we as a Nation celebrate the 4th of July, Emilie and I want to share some of our thoughts with you regarding this important day of the year.  

Independence Day is a momentous occasion celebrated by nations worldwide to honor the spirit of freedom and commemorate the courage of those who fought for their independence. It is a day that signifies the invaluable right to self-determination, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.  Having the freedom to the pursuit of happiness is paramount.

Throughout history, countless nations have strived for independence, breaking free from the shackles of colonization, oppression, and tyranny. These brave struggles have paved the way for the establishment of democratic societies, fostering an environment where individuals can exercise their rights, voice their opinions, and shape their destinies.

Freedom encompasses far more than the absence of physical constraints. It encompasses the right to express oneself, to follow one’s passions, and to live a life in accordance with one’s values and beliefs. It is the fundamental cornerstone of human dignity, allowing individuals to flourish and contribute to the betterment of society. Freedom fuels creativity, innovation, and progress, driving societies forward.  Yet, many people in our lives do not want this.  They want us to live as THEY want, not how we want.  They control us via judgement, cruelty, or even violence. 

The true essence of freedom lies in its ability to empower individuals; especially regarding the pursuit of happiness.  When people are free to pursue this happiness, they are able to unlock their full potential, pursue their dreams, and embrace their unique identities. It grants them the autonomy to make choices, learn from their experiences, and grow as individuals. Yet, there are many in our nation that not only do not pursue their happiness, they do everything they can to prevent others from doing so as well.  

Why is it that we are not able to allow others to feel and experience happiness in only the way THEY define it?  What judgement are you holding onto?  What type of bias?  Is YOUR way of happiness the ONLY way?  We as a Nation are in trouble and very divided.  Society seems to be celebrating divisiveness rather than unity.  “If you don’t agree with me, my thoughts, my happiness…then we can’t be friends/family” and etc.  

It is often said, “There are two things people shouldn’t talk about…Religion and Politics.”  We disagree!  In America, we have a right to self determination and freedom of thought and opinion. The way and manner we discuss these topics is important, yet many people lack the emotional regulation to do so.  Thus, they avoid it all together.  This is divisive behavior and proves my point, “My way or the highway!”

Independence Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our predecessors and the ongoing struggles for freedom around the world. It is a day of unity, celebration, and reflection. Whether through parades, fireworks, or gatherings with loved ones, we pay tribute to the spirit of independence and freedom that binds us together as a nation.

Independence Day is more than just a day of festivities. It is a time to contemplate the significance of freedom and the responsibilities it entails. Let us appreciate the gift of liberty, cherish the memories of those who fought for it, and work diligently to foster a society where freedom thrives. As we celebrate this Independence Day, may we never take our freedom for granted, but instead strive to uphold its values and pass them on to the generations that follow.  We achieve this through proper behaviors and acceptance of our National freedom.  

We would like to end this blog by quoting the lyrics of our National Anthem: The Star Bangled Banner.

O say can you see, by the dawn’s early light,
What so proudly we hail’d at the twilight’s last gleaming,
Whose broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight
O’er the ramparts we watch’d were so gallantly streaming?
And the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air,
Gave proof through the night that our flag was still there,
O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave?

On the shore dimly seen through the mists of the deep
Where the foe’s haughty host in dread silence reposes,
What is that which the breeze, o’er the towering steep,
As it fitfully blows, half conceals, half discloses?
Now it catches the gleam of the morning’s first beam,
In full glory reflected now shines in the stream,
’Tis the star-spangled banner – O long may it wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave!

And where is that band who so vauntingly swore,
That the havoc of war and the battle’s confusion
A home and a Country should leave us no more?
Their blood has wash’d out their foul footstep’s pollution.
No refuge could save the hireling and slave
From the terror of flight or the gloom of the grave,
And the star-spangled banner in triumph doth wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

O thus be it ever when freemen shall stand
Between their lov’d home and the war’s desolation!
Blest with vict’ry and peace may the heav’n rescued land
Praise the power that hath made and preserv’d us a nation!
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto – “In God is our trust,”
And the star-spangled banner in triumph shall wave
O’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.

Happy Independence Day!  We all deserve to celebrate what this stands for!

~Aaron Nicolaides, PhD, LCSW

~Emilie Barragan, LCSW

Therapeuo Health – “Tackling Physical and Emotional Pain.”