What does it mean to take a stand for personal independence and how does one employ this concept in life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness?   In what way would making our own declaration of independence have the potential to benefit health?  It occurred to me that the root of independence lies in our ability to think freely.  As Antoine de Saint-Exupery said, “I know but one freedom and that is the freedom of the mind.”  Coupled with the idea that our thoughts, to a large extent, determine our experiences and actions, I was beginning to see the potential for making my very own declaration of independence based on the idea that there are certain thoughts and actions that I am at liberty to choose as I desire.

It sounds easy, but a simple experiment will reveal to most of us that it is almost impossible to exercise that freedom without a certain amount of self discipline.  How many of us, if we set our mind to the task of focusing on a single thought for just 5 minutes can actually pull it off?  I challenge you to give it a try.  Pick something, anything, even your breathing, and keep your mind focused on that for 5 minutes – not so easy right?  None the less, here are some thoughts worth making the effort of a little extra self-discipline that I would like to include in my declaration of independence.  It is by no means complete but at least a start.

1. I exercise the freedom of my mind to imagine a world of harmony, both within and without.
2. I use this freedom to contribute to the pool of good, supporting mine and other’s right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
3. I choose to spend my time and energy wisely, on those things which cumulatively benefit health and well-being.
4. This includes the way that I choose to spend my money.  I know that my dollars have a voice and I use them to empower others who support the health of the community at large.
5. I acknowledge and use wisely my freedom to enjoy the resources of the earth – fresh air, water, sunlight and food – and to take care and use only that which I need without being wasteful.
6. I choose foods that are fresh and local, making a commitment to grow at least a small amount of what I consume in my own garden.
7. I utilize the information that is freely available to educate myself so that I can make informed and healthy decisions.
8. I share my resources, time and energy with others, including information that will help empower them in their quest for freedom and health. 

Independence is a word that points to a gift that is valuable beyond measure, something that cannot be taken for granted.  What does it mean to you? How do you take a stand for personal independence and how do you use the tools of freedom to live a life of liberty, health and happiness?