True Freedom

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“It was during those long and lonely years that my hunger for the freedom of my own people became a hunger for the freedom of all people, white and black. I knew as well as I knew anything that the oppressor must be liberated just as surely as the oppressed. A man who takes away another man’s freedom is a prisoner of hatred, he is locked behind the bars of prejudice and narrow-mindedness. I am not truly free if I am taking away someone else’s freedom, just as surely as I am not free when my freedom is taken from me. The oppressed and the oppressor alike are robbed of their humanity.

When I walked out of prison, that was my mission, to liberate the oppressed and the oppressor both. Some say that has now been achieved. But I know that this is not the case. The truth is that we are not yet free; we have merely achieved the freedom to be free, the right not to be oppressed. We have not taken the final step of our journey, but the first step on a longer and even more difficult road. For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others. The true test of our devotion to freedom is just beginning.

I have walked that long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter; I have made missteps along the way. But I have discovered the secret that after climbing a great hill, one only finds that there are many more hills to climb. I have taken a moment here to rest, to steal a view of the glorious vista that surrounds me, to look back on the distance I have come. But I can rest only for a moment, for with freedom comes responsibilities, and I dare not linger, for my long walk is not yet ended.”

~ Nelson Mandela “Long Walk to Freedom” (1994)

The smoke has cleared from last night’s fireworks. The grills have all cooled down. For many, freedom will tend to be an afterthought the rest of the year. I’m not just talking about the physical freedoms we enjoy in the United States (and other parts fo the world), but I am wanting us to look deeper into this concept of freedom…freedom of the individual’s mind, heart and soul.

I’ve said it so many times before, there is someone waiting for you on the other side of your promise. The freedom you receive is not just for you, but for your family, friends and neighbors. It’s not enough to just be free yourself, but we must seek to make the lives of those around us better…that they may enjoy freedom as well.

Many years ago, I was given a letter, signed by Nelson Mandela, reminding me of the victories we have seen, and the long road ahead of us in the effort to love our neighbor. People sometimes ask me why I continue to do what I do. It is because, it is my responsibility and privilege to share the same freedom given my family years ago with those who are open to hear. I share in the burden to bring people into freedom…not just physically, but spiritually and mentally as well.

For those of you who live in freedom (which is most of you), be challenged to extend the opportunity of freedom to those around you through serving one another humbly in love. This is a fundamental part of loving your neighbor. True freedom comes with responsibility.

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Galatians 5:13-14

“The oppressor must be liberated just as surely as the oppressed.” Oppressors are in slavery and desire to see others in it as well. My niece says it this way, “Hurt people hurt people.” We must seek freedom not just for the slave, but also for the master. Understanding that love, mercy and grace is a gift…an opportunity for freedom…for all, is the essence of being free.
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Time to Delve in 2012?!

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Whether we’re going to be “great in 2008“, “doing fine in 2009“, “doing it again in 2010“, “opening up heaven in 2011“…we seem to like the idea that each year brings a sort of magic. We love the idea that the fireworks, champagne and watching the Times Square ball drop will magically turn us into something we couldn’t be in the previous year. It’s a new hope for new beginnings.

However, just because the calendar changes, it won’t magically make you stay in Weight Watchers, start loving your partner again, improve your credit score or quit smoking. It’s going to take more than a magical feeling at the stroke of midnight. It’s going to take a new decision, a new discipline, a new outlook. New Year’s resolutions aren’t bad…they are actually quite effective when followed through.

I think the problem is that many of us don’t understand what New Year’s resolutions are about, namely, change, usually significant life change. We must take a serious look at what it is going to take to make your resolutions stick.

Here’s a few things to help you stick to your resolutions.

1. Keep it simple…pick one or two things you really want to work on. You can change the world next year.

2. Make a Plan…do some research. If its going to take money…set a budget. Consider any obstacles. Choose a start date.

3. Create milestones. For most of us, if we haven’t reached our goal by February, we feel like a failure. Breaking your big goal into small easily achievable milestones is key.  Think about your life change in terms of steps.

4. Go big! Be committed 100%. Write it down on sticky notes on your mirror, in your car, on your phone wallpaper, on your computer screen. Every morning, before you even get out of bed, ask yourself, “What do I want to accomplish today?”

5. Don’t beat yourself up…small failures are normal. If you fall, get back up. If you give in to your old ways, forgive yourself and move forward.

6. Reward yourself. There is nothing wrong with patting yourself on the back along the way…just don’t go into debt doing so.

So, is this year going to be different? Is it going to be great? It absolutely can be. It’s up to you. The Time Square New Year’s Ball is in your hands and the decision is yours.

“Be always at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let each new year find you a better man.”  ~Benjamin Franklin

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ says the LORD. ‘They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.’” Jeremiah 29:11

What are some of your resolutions this year and what are you doing to ensure to have success?

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