MONDAY, MAY 20, 2024
John Malvino Alfonso
He held a clerk position at the company, disregarding ethics and honesty in his conduct. His comings and goings were at his own whim, earning admiration from his colleagues. Despite repeated warnings from past managers about punctuality, he remained indifferent, asserting, “I crave freedom.”
Managerial changes had no effect on him until a newly appointed manager asserted authority, finally bringing him in line. Now, he murmurs about the absence of freedom and raises questions about its nature.
The longing for freedom echoes within many of us, resonating with the desire for liberation. But what does it truly mean to be free or independent? An independent individual isn't shackled by the expectations or demands of others, avoiding the stifling constraints that hinder personal growth. It’s a disservice to ourselves to conform to external pressures, jeopardizing our holistic development. So why should we conform? Why should we tailor our lives to fit the moulds others impose upon us, becoming mere puppets in their hands? These questions inspires introspection.
As we delve into these inquiries, we must redefine the essence of independence and freedom. Merely asserting, “I'll do as I please, free from others' influence,” doesn't capture the essence of true emancipation.
Neither does being treated according to our desires equate to freedom. True freedom lies in honouring our commitments and responsibilities, staying true to our values despite external pressures. It's about remaining steadfast in our convictions, fulfilling our duties with integrity. That, indeed, is the essence of genuine liberation.
“The college you've entered feels like a prison,” remarked a student to a recently enrolled College Lecturer. Similarly, a newlywed lamented, “My mother-in-law is unbearable, and my husband is clueless; I feel trapped in this marriage.” These narratives warrant scrutiny.
Let’s start with the student's sentiment. Feeling constrained within the college environment, the student yearns for personalized treatment. However, the essence of being a student inherently involves discipline and adherence to institutional norms. If every student acted solely on their whims, the educational institution would devolve into chaos, resembling a marketplace rather than a place of learning.
Now, consider the plight of the married woman. Seeking relief from the challenges of married life is understandable, but true relief isn't found by maintaining the same behaviours from one life stage to another. If familial dynamics obstruct marital harmony, seeking resolution is reasonable. In essence, seeking relief isn't inherently wise; rather, it's about navigating challenges in a manner that aligns with one's chosen path.
Reflecting on these scenarios, it's evident that understanding the true meaning of freedom is crucial. If our chosen life path poses obstacles to our aspirations, we must reassess. True freedom isn't about disregarding rules but rather embracing them in alignment with our chosen roles. If adherence to these rules becomes burdensome and hinders our growth, it's prudent to reassess our approach rather than persisting to the detriment of ourselves and those around us.
In essence, freedom empowers us to live authentically within the framework of our chosen endeavours. Cultivating a nuanced understanding of our roles and responsibilities fosters a life of genuine liberty. Let's embark on a journey of deeper exploration into this perspective, fostering a richer understanding of our roles and responsibilities as we strive for authentic freedom.
