Free: A Poem and Prayer for Freedom

(The following questions about freedom were asked during a conference call with an online group I was in a couple of years ago. This post is a revised version of the original.)

 

WHAT DOES FREEDOM MEAN TO YOU?

What does it look like, sound like, feel like, smell like, taste like?

One thing freedom means to me is the ability to be myself without fearing what others will think. It means having time to pursue writing, photography and other interests, and being free to practice my faith.

 

Sometimes I feel very free.

When I am on the porch swing or walking barefoot in the grass I take time to listen, to observe, and immerse myself in the beauty of creation. For a time I’m able to forget about all the work waiting for me. The tension seems to drop away if only for a few minutes.

 

freedom

 

FREEDOM

Freedom looks like the wide open sky
seemingly endless

Freedom sounds like a mighty rushing waterfall
constantly moving

Freedom feels like a cool evening breeze
gently blowing

Freedom smells like clean clothes right off the line
exhaling sunshine

Freedom tastes like the salty ocean spray
splashing my face

Freedom may not always be sweet
Sometimes it’s rather sour
with many hardships to overcome

But

Freedom is worth it

 

waterfalllandscape freedom
Twin Falls in Sunset, SC

 

Dear God, please grant us freedom…

from:

           the shackles and bonds that keep us from You;
           self-righteousness or self degradation that comes from comparing ourselves with others;
           prejudices that cause distrust and hate;
           pressure to conform or perform;
to:

          fail and learn from our mistakes;
          pursue and follow where You lead even if others don’t understand;
          love others with the love You give us;
          live in peace and harmony with our neighbors.

In the name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.

 

 

real freedom

 

 

 

 

 

8 thoughts on “Free: A Poem and Prayer for Freedom

  1. Beautiful, Gayl! I love the photos and poetry. These are great reminders of what we hold most precious to us. How grateful that He sacrificed for us to enjoy it and that as a nation, others did as well.

  2. What a beautiful post, Gayl! So great to visit with you today. Love and hugs to you! GOD bless you, beautiful friend! 🙂

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