What Does Freedom Mean to Me?

by Jordan McConnell

Freedom. The word echoes in the ears and minds of Americans. Its heartfelt solemn feeling as it stands breeds the patriots who were, was, and are to come. It is important for all Americans to appreciate our freedom. I dare to ask, "Who would deny the freedom that was fought for by these men and women so boldly?"

This land of the free and the home of the brave came with a price. The American Revolution as we know it began our fight for independence and most definitely freedom. Patriots of all ages and nationalities fought the same war we are fighting today. Colonists fought Britain for their freedom, as we Americans are fighting the war for the innocent civilians of the Middle East who desire their own freedom.

But with freedom comes jealousy from foreign countries. The September 11th tragedy was a sorrowful act of jealousy. I remember sitting in my desk at 9:05 a.m. when my teacher announced that a plane had struck the World Trade Centers. My heart sank to the pits of my chest. I prayed to God the Father for the people who had died and the ones who were trying to find a way out in that desperate hour, but I did not ask for the forgiveness of the terrorists sins. To this day, I still cannot forgive what they did to our country. To have the memory of that fatal tragedy and feel the pain and hear America weeping with smoke, debris, and weak cries for help, you lose all traces of hope. But in the midst of suffering America made the decision to rise to the challenge. The men and women of our military forces who are fighting courageously deserve every bit of respect and honor from their fellow Americans. Our President, George W. Bush, was faced with a difficult uprising, and was supported by his citizens for his formidable decisions.

Being able to fight for freedom and what you believe in is truly a privilege of being free. In America our Declaration of Independence demands freedom. It gives average citizens the right to speak their thoughts and express their feelings without fear of being taken by authorities or being executed. American people have been given the freedom of choice, freedom of speech and a multitude of other freedoms, one of which is to be religiously free. Sadly, you cannot find these extraordinary freedoms in every country.

I give recognition and so much more for those patriots who fought in wars and the ones of September 11th. I also want to express the passion of public speakers who made freedom accessible to all.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., an African American, risked and used his speaking abilities to better the lives of Africans in America. He desired freedom with a fire that set ablaze every heart in America. He cried out with such influence that thousands followed the renowned words he spoke. "I have a dream" are the words that he is remembered for, but I remember him for his struggle for freedom not only for himself, but for the diverse people of America.

In the United States we are reminded of our freedom daily. Statues stand tall and with pride for our freedom. The Liberty Bell rings and with every vibration freedom becomes stronger. The Statue of Liberty as she stands, once greeted the immigrants who traveled to the free America. Ellis Island was touched by the very feet that eagerly crossed to the United States.

I believe that says a lot about my country and to me Freedom is like music, the notes made by one and the song heard by millions. America being the notes made by one and the people who do not have freedom, but desire it, are the ones who receive and hear her song.