Monday, September 13, 2010

Love, Shackles, and Freedom

Freedom is more than a well-written constitution, more than an efficient government with checks and balances; freedom goes beyond just politics.

We may be held captive by any number of bonds, including dictators, pride, narcotics, and hatred. In liberating ourselves from bondage and reaching out to others to free them, we show love towards others.

As each of us becomes stronger, more virtuous, better educated, and closer to God, we are all better able to keep the mediating entities of society balanced in power. These include government, religion, community, family, academia, media, and business. When they are balanced in power, we enjoy freedom. When they are not balanced, we become captive.

The core of freedom then is love, love that we may each become stronger, love that we may each cast off our shackles and submit to Providence, love that we may help others do so.