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The 4th of July is an annual celebration of independence... specifically, that of the United States of America.  On July 4th, 1776, the Second Continental Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence, officially declaring the colonies' separation from England.  

But freedom is not only about independence.  Author and historian Timothy Snyder suggests that too often we regard freedom only in a negative sense, as the removal of barriers.  He suggests a need to view freedom as a positive value, too... as a presense.  What must be present in order for people to feel free to be themselves?  

The vacuum of space offers negative freedom.  No obstacles.  But also no breathable air, no live-able climate.  Similarly, a baby cannot thrive on mere absence.  Children need barriers and guidance; they need the presence of connection to truly thrive.  (And food, and shelter, and nurture...)  A baby left alone at the foot of a mountain is free only in a sense that betrays our most basic humanity.  

And so it is that this day we have an opportunity to not only celebrate the freedom expressed in independence... but also that which moves from accepting our basic interdependence, as well.  Positive freedom -- the presence of care, nurture, kindness, and justice -- is the only real basis of anyone truly feeling free to be themselves.

The last time that CONNECTION was our monthly theme was July of 2020... just a few months after so much in our shared world had been shut down to prevent the spread of COVID.  Much was removed.  This did not feel freeing.  Quite the contrary, in fact.  Rather, it was in those moments of re-connection in the months and years that followed that felt like true liberation.

As we celebrate independence this month -- a value our free-thinking tradition has long held high! -- may we also remember to celebrate, honor, and protect our many sources of interdependence and connection, as well.  This is why we work for social justice, right?  Because we believe each person should be free to be themselves.  And we recognize that certain basics must be met for that to truly occur.  And so...

May we seek and find liberation not in only the absence of connection but in the presence of right relationship.  May we create space for the emergence of authenticity and trust.  May we nurture the best in others, and our selves.  And may we work for a world that takes seriously the soul's rise to freedom in the absence of basic want and need.  

May we be a people so bold and so loving.