Freedom: Stepping into the Unknown with Courage
The secret of Happiness is Freedom, and the secret of Freedom, Courage.
—Thucydides (460 BC – 395 BC), Greek Historian
Just a few days ago, we paused our schedules and leaned into gathering with friends and family to twirl sparklers, do cannonballs into an inviting pool, munch on fine summer cuisine such as BBQ hotdogs and chunks of watermelon and then, with nightfall, soothed our family canine member’s angst as the pop and clack of fireworks bounced from one backyard to the next. The opening quote seems especially fitting for a July 4th reflection and I must say, I am consistently intrigued by our BC philosophers who were able to dispel their wisdom without a Twitter feed or Insta post! Thousands of years later and the words ring true for our contemporary self-awareness.
My intention and dedication to being a therapist is to help clients remove barriers to their happiness. These “barriers” range from many external pressures such as hectic, hamster wheel schedules to a job drain of creativity or purpose. For others, the internal barriers blocking happiness may be emotional distance and loneliness in a romantic relationship, destructive consumption and shame around alcohol or drug use, painful grief from regrets or the ache of historical trauma wounds and a loss of believing themselves able or deserving of a satisfying life.
As we digest the enlightened morsel from our ancient guide, Thucydides, to find happiness is to feel free and to experience freedom is to have courage to step most often, into the unknown. Being in therapy is to seek freedom from discomfort, heartache, anxious pressure, emotional fatigue and punishing self-beliefs and behaviors. Being in therapy is most definitely to be brave and courageous…and makes us think.
In the words of Aretha Franklin, we need to “think.” Thinking about choices and the freedoms we have to tap into with every thought and decision we make. Take a moment to consider how you have been experiencing freedom by valuing your thoughts, practicing self-care habits and breaking out from avoidance through your courageous work in personal discovery. Consider how tough it can be to chip away at some of those “emotional life sentences” either assigned to us from our past or through some of our choices, or fears, that we now must dedicate heart and soul to overturn.
Happiness is not a given, it requires the action of being steadfast in facing our fear of change. Seeking freedom is to engage in courageous conversations with others, to define and advocate healthy needs, to change jobs, embark on a different avenue of meaning, explore a buried desire, live alone following a long-term relationship and be willing to release burdens of guilt and shame by gifting yourself grace and focusing on your unique worth. In essence, facing change boldly and with courage is setting yourself free.
Thoughts, ideas and inspiration take root during these weeks of lemonade, chlorine, beach outings and giggles. The sun, sand and smooth skies stretch out all around us, serving up plenty of time to digest our accomplishments and reflect on our personal next steps. Along with poolside chatter, rhythmic waves and sizzling burgers, the sounds of summer are embodied in music. Here are four of my favorite tunes when it comes to expressing happiness and the freedom to sway your arms, tap your bare feet and enjoy!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vet6AHmq3_s
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y6Sxv-sUYtM