The approval of others is important to me, but not superior to accountability, truth, and doing the right thing. I strive to be thoughtful, sacrificing, and considerate, even as I meet my own needs. I accept that some people will not like me, no matter what I do.

Forgiveness is a reliable habit, and its practice eases the burdens and harshness of life.

Thus far, I have mobility and the use of my body for ordinary activities. I’m free to go where I need to go at my discretion and schedule. I can walk my dog and enjoy the outdoors: nature and families relaxing in the park. I can drive where and when I want, take walks, exercise, and listen to a wide array of music. I can even attempt to play music to the extent my arthritic hands and limited ability will allow.

I am free to fulfill my obligations and respond with care and dignity to those who have grievances against me. I do not carry grudges , nor dwell upon resentments.

I am free to express and air my opinions, while not compelled to rant or interfere with the opinions and rights of others. In so doing, I take calculated risks balancing freedom of expression and action with the possibility of offending others or incurring retribution without meaning to do so.

I can enjoy sensual pleasures without compulsively overindulging. I can stop eating when I’m not hungry and spare myself from overdoing things, bring myself back to moderation, and avoid things I know are not good for me. I live without feelings of deprivation. This is true not only for physiological appetites, but also for the hunger for recognition and appreciation. Of course, I want respect, recognition, appreciation, and accolades. However, I can be content knowing that I serve others and do my best—usually with care and competence.

I know that life does not owe me, and this is quite liberating. When I don’t get what I want or expect (quite often), I get over it and am free from obsessive rumination about what didn’t go my way.

I am devoid of envy and comparing myself to others. I enjoy the ease of marveling at the skills and abilities of others, as God has delegated and distributed them. I am filled with wonder and admiration, rather than covetousness or resentment.

I am not crushed with oppressive guilt or regret, for I know that God has forgiven and continues to forgive me. This inspires not only gratitude, but also the motivation to forgive and love others, to curb the sin that encroaches, and make amends where possible for things I’ve done wrong.

I’m able and eager to love and respect people of different origins and beliefs. I realize that we are all God’s children. My preferences and tastes notwithstanding, I’m intrigued by different customs, traditions, and histories. Such differences remind me that I’m only a small part of things. I understand that my culture and privilege bear responsibility for the oppression of others; yet, I do not carry guilt for the deeds of my predecessors. I am free to love and accept even those who deplore or hate me.

And yet, despite this burgeoning freedom, I am bound by responsibility for and obligation toward my fellow brothers and sisters. When people suffer, I’m affected. With relation and compassion, I’m constrained by the affliction and burdens of others: the poor, the sick, the imprisoned, and those impaired by sin or weakness (Galatians 6:2) (Hebrews 13:3). But for the grace of God, there go I.

Though I enjoy freedoms in all the ways listed, I know that I have been bought with a price (I Corinthians 6:20). Instead of being a slave to sin, I strive to be a slave to righteousness (Romans 6:16-18).

Life is not without worries, pain, and sorrow. All in all, it’s a pretty good deal. I am more free than ever to enjoy it. I know you’d like to be free, too.