As we approach the 4th of July and celebrate Independence Day in the U.S., I find myself wondering: how often do we reflect on what freedom really means in today’s world?

Ours is still a relatively young country. Most Americans have never directly experienced what it’s like to have a militarized force take control of their land or strip them of their freedom.

But this has not been the case for everyone. Indigenous peoples, including American Indians, Pueblo, and Mexican communities, as well as enslaved Africans brought to this land, did endure such losses. The question is—do we remember? Do we choose to learn from this history?

Americans are known for fiercely valuing freedom and resisting control. And yet, freedom always comes with a cost.

There’s a vital difference between independence and interdependence—because in truth, we do need each other.

Historically, women, children, and people of color have been expected to submit to power or face punishment. Sadly, our current political climate seems to be relying on that same dynamic.

Since the rise of patriarchy around 2,500 years ago—marked by military dominance—this impulse to submit to authority has become deeply ingrained in our collective psyche. For many, it’s an unconscious behavior.

One pattern I often see—especially in women—is the habit of putting others’ needs first, often to their own detriment. Difficulty setting boundaries, or even recognizing them, is common. But boundaries are deeply tied to the concepts of freedom, independence, and interdependence.

There are times when putting others first is right and necessary—but only when it’s a conscious choice, grounded in a strong inner knowing of what is ours to do and what is not.

Taking leadership within a family or community is how healthy societies are built. But again, it must be a choice, not a directive imposed from outside.

Unfortunately, the meaning of democracy seems to have become confused.

Our founders tried to lay a strong foundation, and they were particularly clear about the importance of separating church and state. They had seen firsthand the damage caused by religious rule. For the record, most of them were Deists—not Christians. So no, we are not a “Christian nation,” and it’s frustrating to hear that claim repeated.

Religion has long been used as a tool for control—not just in Christianity, but in all major religions. Shepherds need flocks, yes—but that doesn’t mean we need to become sheep.

We have the freedom to believe—and be—what we choose.

Choose wisely, Goddess.