Independence

Barbara Williams

The 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence is a perfect opportunity to consider the meaning of the word “Independence.” No matter our age or ability, there's no liberty or pursuit of happiness without it. Yet, nobody achieves independence independently, in a vacuum. And the term has different meanings at different stages of our lives.

Consider a child's burst of joy the first time she pedals down the driveway on her birthday bike, heading off to a friend's house. Recall the sheer freedom the teenager feels zooming off in the family car to a game or pizza shop, away from the watchful eyes of those parents who paid for the machine. As adults, we experience that same feeling, the pride and excitement of moving into our own home, paying our own bills. Who accomplishes those feats alone? Nobody.

In our nation's infancy, we were indeed dependent. If not for other nations like France, there would have been no United States of America. As our nation grew, we flexed new muscles, building a vast network of institutions with the might of our people and abundant natural resources. This was accomplished on the aching backs of slaves and immigrants, without whom there would be no engines of industry wealth and power.

We must remember that we owe our independence to those who fought the wars, raised and taught the children, built, designed and delivered the products and services that we take for granted today. They made our comfort and security possible, and we must repay their contribution and sacrifice.

Thanks to this generation, America became a world leader that helped conquer fascism and supported independence for other nations. No country standing on its own accomplished the feat in isolation, likewise for us as individuals. How independent can anyone be without partners, resources and a community? Does anyone accomplish greatness alone? No.

Independence, for those of us a bit older, often means being able to stay in our home, yet not be stuck in it, being able to go where we want and eat what we like. At this stage in life, however, independence can become a bit tenuous, especially if our support network has broken down. down. Perhaps the finances are tight and we are without the help of family or friends. Hopefully, this is when the larger community steps in.

The support needed to live independently can come from some of the Publishing Partners that bring you The Champion as well as other organizations appearing in the newsletter. If you have questions or need further assistance, calling 211 is a good place to begin. 211 Maine is a free, confidential information and referral service that helps people of all ages across Maine find local services. It is based in Maine and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and the specialists are trained and friendly; they know we all need help sometimes.

You can also contact the Hallowell All Age-Friendly Committee by email at hallowellagefriendly@gmail.com. We’re happy to help!

If you ever want to know how to help a neighbor in need, contact the Hallowell All-Age Friendly Committee. We can connect you with local organizations who assist the ones who helped build America.