Sunday, February 28, 2021

Freedom!


 FREEDOM
From the CSL Global Vision: "We envision a world in which we live and grow as One Global Family that respects and honors the interconnectedness of all life; a world where kinship with all life prospers and connects thorough the guidance of spiritual wisdom and experience."

As we wrap up our February theme of One Journey, Many Paths we turn our attention to the concept of Freedom. Each of us experience freedom in a variety of ways depending on what part of the world we grow up in. Over the last year we've all be a part of a Global pandemic that has left many people feeling that our freedom has been limited. Others feel that due to technology our freedom has been expanded. Never before, in modern history, have we experienced something that has impacted every one on the planet at the same time. We may not all like some of the limitations or all enjoy the expansions, however we always have the freedom to choose how we react to them. 

“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.” Nelson Mandela

There are a variety of ways to explore the concept of Freedom. Freedom is our Divine birthright. All people have the freedom to make their own choices. We think for ourselves. We pick our own words, do our own things, and make our own decisions. That means we get to create our own life, and decide what kind of life we want to live. We get to choose happiness and how we respond to our relationships and the world around us. For every freedom we have, comes the responsibility to make the best choices for ourselves and for each other. 

“May we think of freedom not as the right to do as we please, but as the opportunity to do what is right.” Peter Marshall

This week, set aside some time to explore the various ways you experience freedom. Some topics could include: Freedom of choice. Freedom of thought. Freedom to make mistakes. Freedom to be or play on your own. Freedom to believe in yourself. Freedom to help others. You may even find more areas to explore. Below are a few questions to get you started. 

What choices do you make on your own? What dreams or thoughts do you have during the day? What thoughts or dreams do you have about your future? Do you give yourself the freedom to make and learn from mistakes? If not, what would it feel like if you did? What are some things you really enjoy doing? 

“Freedom is not worth having if it does not include the freedom to make mistakes.” Mahatma Gandhi

You have the freedom to be whoever you want to be. You do this by listening to your own heart and your inner guidance or Spirit-self. Visualize what kind of person you want to be when you grow up. What will you be doing? Where will you live? How will you give back to the world? Remember you have the power and freedom to create your reality through your thoughts. Choose good ones.

AFFIRMATIONS: 

I have freedom to choose what I think. 
I have a freedom to choose what I feel. 
I have freedom to choose what I do. 
I make good choices.

"I am free to be the glorious me that I am." Susan Robinson

PEBBLE Meditation:
This week we explore the Pebble Mediation. The link below is from a video from Plum Village so you can watch how a pebble meditation is done. Weather permitting - go on a family hike and gather 4 pebbles that speak to you for each step of the process.

I'm also inviting you to do a google search for another cool find, it's a mindfulness blog - called "Education's Voice" (on wordpress.com) Unfortunately the link won't share on my blog, however it has information on the pebble mediation and so much more! A cool place for families and teachers to explore. 

MUSIC: 
This weeks music comes to you from two amazing and very different artists, Pharrell Williams with Freedom (lyrics) and India Arie with Strength, Courage and Wisdom from her album Beautiful. Bypass the adds and enjoy.



BOOKS: 
So many great books to explore. A few have links and a few do not, however don't let that stop you from checking them out! 

Dreams of Freedom - by Amnesty International 

We are all Born Free - by Amnesty International

We've got the Whole World in our Hands - Art by Rafael Lopez

Henry's Freedom Box - by Ellen Levine, Art: Kadir Nelson Based on the true story from the underground railroad of Henry Brown's creative and courageous journey to freedom!

Have a wonderful week exploring all the ways you experience Freedom! 
(Photo credit to Allen-Taylor on Unsplash)



































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