That's what my shirt says today, anyway. I'm wearing one of my old tees that I picked up in N'Ampsha with the state motto on it. And an eagle that is more cute than fierce, although I don't think that was the intention of the designer. I was thinking about the motto on my way to work this morning.
Not in the big picture terms of the original statement. But rather in the little things... like being free to go to work. Or, as I came up to the on-ramp for the interstate with 3/4 a tank of gas... I could just take a turn and go for miles and hours and... Ok, my husband and my boss would be upset with me. I kept going onward to work. But that was my choice. I was free to make that choice.
After work - only a half-day, since I finished the assays that HAD to be done this morning, and I'd fulfilled my 40 hours - I again had the freedom to make a choice. I didn't have to go right home and not stray. If I wanted to go find a park, take a hike, take photos, be alone... I was free to do so. If I took long enough I ought to tell my husband where I was at (actually, I do this any time I'm soloing on a hiking trip. Safe practices) but I didn't HAVE to. There's an incredible amount of freedom in being able to pick and choose what I want to do, and when, and for how long. So what did I do? I went home and laid down to take a nap. I know, I know... so bold and adventurous!
I'll never again live at someone else's whim. I am free. I am alive. Life is good.
Live free or die!