What does it mean to “live free”? That’s a big question, and the answer will be different for each person. But this new series of weekly reflections will explore what freedom is, how much of it we need, and what we can do to take back control of our lives. And while addiction and sobriety provide the impetus for this series, the question of how to live free–and why we might want to–applies to pretty much every human being.
Do you stay up too late playing Royal Match because it’s the only time you have to yourself? Do you drink too much as a way to rebel against the demands of work and home? Do you overeat because putting food in your mouth feels like one choice you can make for yourself? Do you take amphetamines or abuse prescription ADHD drugs to keep up with life’s demands? Do you take heroin or abuse prescription opioids to escape those demands?
What you’re trying to do, in all of these instances, is have some control over your life. That’s understandable. We live under so many rules and expectations in American society. Beyond the basic laws established for our safety (don’t kill or hurt each other, don’t run red lights, etc.), are long lists of expectations. We have to make a certain amount of money, have certain kinds of things, and gain a particular level of status in our chosen work. On top of that, we’re bombarded with lists of rules for how to “live well” – how to have optimal health, great sleep, great sex lives, thriving relationships, smart children, vibrant hair, etc.
All of these expectations can start to suppress our individuality, our unique way of interacting with the world. Sometimes it feels like the only way to take back some control is by breaking the rules. Unfortunately, how we choose to break the rules often leads to more suffering.
To live free, then, means to create a life that doesn’t force you into sneaking moments of “freedom” that only end up making you feel worse. To live free means to remember, every day, every moment, that you are the author of your life. To live free means to control your anxiety instead of letting it control you.
We can’t tell you how to live. But we can say that your life is your own to create, and we can give you some ideas that might inspire you to take back some control in a healthy way. Just for fun, we’ll provide weekly “Try This” tasks that invite you to get weird, to play, to imagine. Don’t look for connections between the task and the reflection. The tasks are their own beast, with their own purpose: to help you become friends with yourself.
Ultimately, the goal of Live Free Reflections is just that: to nurture your friendship with yourself. When you have a good friend, you want the best for them. You want their burdens to be light. Being a friend to yourself will help you make choices that create ease in your life. You’ll feel more able to be your true self with your family and community. When you can be who you are, you live free.
One Response
The idea of becoming a friend to yourself is such a beautiful way to approach recovery and life in general. We are so often our own harshest critics. I love the concept of building a life where I don’t feel the need to ‘rebel’ against my own choices. Can’t wait to see what the ‘Try This’ tasks bring to the table!