While many Americans will be waving flags, enjoying fireworks and gathering for community events this week, I'm thinking of a different type of "freedom." 

Not the freedom granted by a government, or is dependent on a relationship, a diagnosis or bank account. 

True freedom begins when we align to the wisdom of our own hearts. 

"Oh, Diane," I hear some of you thinking, "that's just naive." 

I used to think so too.

For most of my life, I thought my experience was dependant on external circumstances. I was plagued by the "ifs."

If I could only solve this one problem...

If he/she/they would just do what they're supposed to...

If I had more money...

If my body felt better and I had more energy...

The "ifs" don't keep us stuck. The fearful stories we build around them do.

To change those, get your head and heart to work together!

When we connect with the Divine Wisdom available to each of us, something shifts. We gain greater clarity. We respond instead of react. We discover a freedom that exists even when life doesn't seem to cooperate.

So how do you do that? 

Meditation, prayer, being part of a supportive spiritual community can all assist you.

For me, an important formula for personal transformation has been the Be Love Principles. Not just beautiful ideas, I've discovered the Principles are practical steps toward freedom.

They are:

1. Greet everyone with an open heart, without an agenda.  Freedom begins when we stop trying to control every transaction. We become curious instead of defensive and present instead of preparing a rebuttal.
2. See the divine essence in everyone and everything.  Fear teaches us to focus on differences. Love reminds us of our shared humanity and invites our human hearts to soften.
3. Forgive quickly, completely, and unconditionally.  Forgiveness doesn't excuse harmful behavior. It releases us from carry the burden of resentment. When we forgive, we stop allowing yesterday to dictate our experience today.
4. Remember you are the Light. You never left the Light of the All. This final principle changes everything. You are not broken or lost. You are not separate from the Love that created you. While you may temporarily forget who you are, your eternal nature can never change. 

Remembering this truth is the deepest freedom I know.