The Civic Balance of Freedom and Responsibility
This week’s The Gowrie News reported the winners of
the 26th annual Fort Dodge Noon Sertoma “What Does Freedom Mean to
Me?” essay contest. My family has been in a tizzy; we couldn’t be more
delighted. The first prize was awarded to Jaiden Ackerson, our eighth-grade
granddaughter. Dianna and her daughter, Erin Ackerson, were able to attend the
presentation luncheon today (March 7). This week, Jaiden is being recognized as
a winner and a hero and has been modestly enjoying her recognition.
Instead of starting with a dictionary definition of
“freedom,” Jaiden led off by quoting Bob Dylan: “A hero is someone who
understands the responsibility that comes with his freedom.” She went on to say:
“…freedom means living in a country
where democracy matters, being able to have all races and religions peacefully
live and work together, and being able to make personal choices while speaking
my mind.
“However, freedom does not give me
the license to do anything I want, whenever I want. With freedom comes
responsibility. Freedom allows me to make choices in my life, and those very choices
come with consequences. These consequences may affect my life as well as the
lives of others. When the consequences of my choices become negative, I may
lose some of my freedoms…
“Freedom is a privilege we must
honor. Freedom allows all citizens to have the right to pursue an education of
their choice, to work hard, and to succeed in their communities and their
lives. We, as free people, also have a responsibility to protect our
communities and the people who live there. This freedom spreads beyond me and
my community. This freedom is so important to me that I must preserve it for
future generations. The greatest display of appreciation for my freedom is to
become the best individual I can be.”
You don’t have to fight a war or win a contest to be a hero.
Our communities are filled with everyday heroes who simply accept their
responsibilities and go about their lives taking care of what needs to be done.
Some, seeing a need and having the capacity, extend themselves further and
voluntarily accept additional responsibilities. Jaiden sees her mother not only
managing her family, but as a nurse, also faithfully and lovingly caring for
the weak and aged. Jaiden’s grandmother went to college as an adult, became a teacher
and served children in Fort Dodge and elsewhere for two decades.
It does not fall to everyone to be recognized for performing
great dramatic acts. But our freedoms do allow us to make personal choices. We
choose what responsibilities we care to undertake, and voluntarily contribute
to the welfare of our families, communities, and our common good. As an
example, I want to thank the nice neighbor who that took the time to coax my
dog when it ran off, call the vet for my phone number, and then let me know
where to find her. It was a pure act of neighborly care and civic
responsibility.
Actually, taking on responsibility for something outside of
ourselves is a choice to give up some personal liberties. Think of all the
people who have given up time, attention and resources so that your life can be
better. Parents sacrifice for their children. Volunteers sacrifice for their
communities. Public servants should not be considered “takers” who are dragging
down our economy. Instead, teachers, first responders, and even IRS auditors
and EPA administrators serve our needs for learning, protection, fairness, and
public safety. The have chosen to exercise their freedom to take responsibility
for the good of others. They are our heroes and we should respect and honor
them as such.
David Satterlee
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