When I read this question, I just knew I had to write down my thoughts about it and I also thought that it could make a great post. I especially hope to hear from readers what their response is as well! It is something that we are constantly asked throughout our lives and something that I think of often, and always have. This tends to be especially prevalent in my mind during July and the events surrounding our Independence Day. It really is about more than just fireworks and BBQ’s.

There are many things that I think of when I hear the word independence. One of the most prevalent though, is just freedom. My grandfather spent 27 years in the US military and he has always inspired me. I grew up hearing stories of his time in the Navy, Army, and Air Force, stories that truly never get old. He sacrificed so very much throughout his life to ensure that our independence remained. He, along with my parents, fostered a love and appreciation of my country in me from a very young age. I am very grateful for that, because I know how lucky I am and I know that not everyone gets to experience the freedom that those living in the United States and other countries do. I am so very blessed to live in the country that I do. Being free to pursue my passions and believe and worship as I desire is so amazing and honestly not very common in the world. Independence to me means that I am free to pursue my life to the utmost of my ability without worrying about any authority stifling it.

I hope to live every day to the fullest and remember not to take Independence for granted.

So, that is what independence means to me, but it can mean so many different things to many different people. What does independence mean to you?