What
a concept.
Independence
means freedom from control, influence, support, aid, or interference
of others.
In
other words, standing on our own two feet and being proud to do so.
This
includes not expecting handouts from the government, our parents, or
our grandparents. Independence isn't easy, nor is it guaranteed. The
world doesn't owe us anything: not a place to live, an inheritance, a
job, or an education.
Too
many people think they deserve to have everything provided, so they
feel disrespected or offended if things don't go as
they wish. They just don't get that we have to actively pursue and
earn our independence.
Independence
is being responsible for ourselves: learning, working, bringing home
a paycheck, using these funds to pay bills—on time, and putting
some aside for the future. It's planning, making decisions, using
common sense, enjoying life, and finding our way on our own.
I
believe that it is a privilege to have the opportunity to be
self-sufficient and self-reliant. I'm proud that our forefathers
fought for our freedom and our right to pursue happiness and
independence.
“Freedom
cannot be bestowed —
it must be achieved.”
Elbert
Hubbard
