Freedom from harm; freedom from pain; freedom from persecution; freedom from disease. When Amelia tugs the pull on the last day of a several month journey in the cancer center, the relief is obvious and the change in demeanor powerful. When the chime sings out it is a sacred sound.
I have spoken of the bell in a past post but today is to honor how a signal became a symbol. Patients who have witnessed others’ end of treatment, glance at the bell daily knowing they will make it through. It becomes a beacon of hope in the small space encouraging their personal courage.
As a child in Philadelphia, we field tripped to Independence Hall and the Liberty bell. The solemn halls, paintings of the signers of the declaration are all very imposing, but what captures every child’s imagination is the bell. We didn’t understand at that age. I thought the paper with John Hancock was signed, the bell rang and we were free from English rule. Instead, the bell tolled calling to gather at the Pennsylvanian state house and those who joined from young Monroe at age 20 to Franklin at 70 placed pen to paper to demand liberty. It took 7 years after 1776 to achieve the goal. The bell started a process of power and independence, creating a free nation indivisible with liberty and justice for all.
The chime was not the end, it was the beginning of an amazing future. Today, 4th of July weekend, I like to borrow that inspiration. When you achieve- maybe cancer therapy, perhaps a degree, a new career, a joining of lives, or a healing of mind and body, there is a new beginning hard fought and hard won.
You did not get to this place today without trials, fear, hardship on many levels, suffering in your soul or even by luck. You put the work in and achieved. Your personal freedom from strife may not be cast in bronze and you may be the only one who appreciates it. But your fortitude will also impact others today and for generations. Accept the glory of this new day. Know that you are free to make choices that powerfully link you to others, even inspiring their goals. What an amazing force you are.
What I love about the Liberty Bell is the crack. The first bell sent from London years before the revolution cracked in transit. It was reforged in Pennsylvania to the bell we see. After touring the country it cracked in the 1800’s and was repaired with the rivets visible, the scar reinforced. It hangs now in solemn majesty as a symbol of a nation. Even more awe inspiring because of the “crack”. It sits powerful, imposing, unapologetic for its wounds. It claims brazenly, “I came through the fire and I am not going anywhere. My battle scars are visible for all to see. Let them inspire you to value your own freedom, to live with pride and passion. Let no threat deter you from you own mission. Stand firm in your beliefs. Undeterred in your actions and hopeful in you heart.”
You too will inspire others. Walk with your head high, your footstep light and your shoulders strong. Know that personal victory is possible every day. Tyranny, sickness, pain and suffering are no match for faith in a bright future. Reach out for the life you want and deserve. Be fearless. Liberty is not a word. It is a right. It does not just exist this weekend. It is a choice you can make everyday.
Happy Independence Day. Let your personal freedom ring.