The 4th of July is America’s Independence Day. Over this weekend people celebrate with friends and family with cookouts, pool parties, music and fireworks. It’s an American celebration. One where we remember the history of our founding fathers declaring independence from a tyrannical government. A day where we celebrate the the colonies fighting for its independence.
13 Independent States United
It is a fine tradition. Although one should remember the reason for the day. 13 separate countries (also called states or nation states) united in spirit, resources and resolve to take on an empire who was hell bent on forcing them to live as less than free men and women. From this, we get the name the United States. Each state (or nation state) was independent of all others. Yet each came together for the goal of defending its freedom and liberty from an enemy.
So, when speaking of our country please keep this in mind. It is a union of sovereign states united with a limited republican government structure. However, we have been on a path to eliminate this system of united sovereign states and replace it with one national government…one empire.
This fundamentally changes America in a way that reduces liberty and allows for gigantic government powers. These are two of the things that spurred our founding fathers to declare independence in the first place. Let us not allow a similar government to slowly manifest itself through a thousand small “harmless” changes. No matter the stated justification… whether security or fairness or social justice, this country should remain a union of independent states with a limited federal government whose job is to serve the states and its sovereign people. Be vigilant.
Independence is a Prerequisite to True Freedom
It seems like an obvious fact. However, it is extremely important nonetheless. The founding fathers had to declare independence and work for independence before they received freedom.
This merits repeating in simpler terms. True freedom does not come without first becoming independent.
in·de·pen·dent adj.
1. Not governed by a foreign power; self-governing.2. Free from the influence, guidance, or control of another or others; self-reliant: an independent mind.3. Not determined or influenced by someone or something else; not contingent: a decision independent of the outcome of the study.4. often Independent Affiliated with or loyal to no one political party or organization.5. Not dependent on or affiliated with a larger or controlling entity: an independent food store; an independent film.6.a. Not relying on others for support, care, or funds; self-supporting.b. Providing or being sufficient income to enable one to live without working: a person of independent means.- freeonlinedictionary.com
Self governing and self reliance must be achieved before true freedom, and it applies to both countries and individuals.
As government grows they talk more and more about the need for individuals to make sacrifices for the sake of the collective society. Usually these sacrifices come in the form of more taxes that take more money from citizens. This means less economic freedom. Sacrifices are forced on the people with new laws and regulation too. Often these will be reductions in liberty and personal choices. This means less personal freedom (or as some call social freedom).
Over time these infringements on liberty add up. So what can a person do? Here’s an idea.
- Become Independent.
- Become self reliant.
- Strive for complete self ownership.
When individuals are self reliant, independent and self governed to the fullest extent possible something wonderful happens. People do not turn to government for solutions, help or handouts. They go about their lives solving their own problems and relying only on themselves. There is little reason or room for government to intrude on people’s lives when individuals are independent.
Independence is the precursor to greater liberty. Therefore, any liberty loving individual should live responsibly and make independence, self reliance and self ownership goals of the highest priority.
So what can one person do?
- Declare your personal independence
- Learn about history and economics
- Learn about how the government works and how it is supposed to work. Currently these are two different things.
- Get rid of your debt. Debt is the enemy of independence. Debt has burdened individuals, created financial instability in people’s lives and allowed the government a way into our lives.
- Learn skills to take care of yourself. Learn to fix things in your home. Learn to cook. Learn to grow food. Learn to repair your car. Learn how to budget your money. Learn how to save & invest. Learn, learn, learn.
- Learn skills that are useful to make a living. There may be less and less jobs in the coming days. When push comes to shove you may have to create your own job. Spend time preparing skills for this.
- Regardless of what the “cool” people say, prepare for bad days. There may be a tornado, earthquake or some other natural disaster. Have shelter, food, water, tools and medical supplies available in case something unfortunate happens. Better to have it and not need it then need it and not have it. This is how independent people think and act.
- Eliminate dependence on others and government as your degree of self reliance and self ownership rise.
- Encourage independence to others.
- Share what you learn with other open-minded people. Don’t waste your time on people who are not open to different thoughts.
As this 4th of July weekend winds down and we prepare to go back to our jobs (or look for one) and businesses, please keep in mind the meaning behind Independence day and challenge yourself to be a person who, with purpose, moves in the direction of self ownership and personal independence.
Break Free From The Herd