“A time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away.”
– Ecclesiastes 3:6
Did you know on July 8, 1776, the first public readings of the Declaration were held in Philadelphia’s Independence Square to the ringing of bells and band music? A year later, on July 4, 1777, Philadelphia marked Independence Day by adjourning Congress and celebrating with bonfires, bells and fireworks. Now Independence Day is celebrated as one of our summer holidays that includes festivals, parades and picnics.(1)
A catalyst that was a link in the chain of events leading to the move for independence of the 13 colonies from Great Britain was Parliament deciding to tax its American colonies. Colonial assemblies denounced the law claiming the tax was illegal and burdensome on the grounds that they had no representation in Parliament, leading to the creation of the slogan, “no taxation without representation.” What is burdening you that you want to declare independence from? That’s the theme of this month’s series and the question posed to a handful of persons.
This week, I will present two Declarations. Due to the transparency and candidness of the responses, the respondents have decided to be identified by a pseudonym.
I really need to let go of fear I need to let go of fear.
There are things that I fear that I really don’t have a reason to be afraid of. At work, I fear if I am not “perfect”, I will be fired. That, in turn, cause me anxiety. Among my friends, I fear if I disagree with them they may stop speaking to me so I keep quiet on matters that I know I need to speak up. In my marriage, sometimes I am afraid he will get tired of my insecurities and leave. It was only after hearing a sermon recently that talked about fear. I was so enlightened when the pastor said God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. I was so encouraged by that sermon. Thanks for opening up your column for our input. I will be working on declaring my independence from always being afraid of something and my dependence on God to give me the courage and strength I need to handle whatever I need to handle.
– No More Fear
Ignoring negativity
I have realized that negativity can impact you in ways you can’t imagine. Your mood is awful. You are grouchy and have headaches. Me anyway. Once I noticed this, I try to distance myself from it. Be it a situation or person. I’m at a point in my life where I am very content. I Timothy 6:6, Now godliness with contentment is great gain. The Lord also tells us, “to love thy neighbor as thy self. Matthew 19:19. It’s hard most days when all you hear and see is negativity. Loving myself is far better than being negative. I immediately say a prayer. I thank the Lord, that I have Him in my life. If I can be someone positive, so be it. It just might rub off on somebody. It only takes one. Thank You, Lord! My Declaration of Independence is to ignore negativity.
– Cecilia T.
Source:
1 Library of Congress, “Magna Carta: Muse and Mentor,” at: https://www.loc.gov/exhibits/magna-carta-muse-and-mentor/no-taxation-without-representation.html
Next Week: Continuation
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