The Meaning of Freedom

Ashley Conkling

Ottawa University Freedom is the ability to have personal choice. It’s the ability to choose right from wrong and separate good from bad. The capability to keep personal beliefs and have the choice of democracy is freedom. Independence and self-determination are meaningful and earned in our country. Freedom is a gift that separates our country from many. Without conformity, freedom is having a voice and being able to speak personal views. It separates us from many whom aren’t as fortunate to have the independence our country has. Martin Luther King speaks from the wisdom of his past. He was always searching for light in darkness. Tragic misunderstanding from our enemies guides him to good spirits and insight to his listeners. He spoke of wars stating “Perhaps a new spirit is rising among us. If it is, let us trace its movements and pray that our own inner being may be sensitive to its guidance, for we are deeply in need of a new way beyond the darkness that seems so close around us.” (1967) When speaking of Vietnam, Martin Luther King believes social conformation comes from non-violent actions. The Nobel Peace Prize he states is a work of his ministries through Christ. He emphasizes loving God and loving one another. Martin talked about how the urgency of today is important because opportunity can be lost and there is never a better time then now for positive change. Nelson Mandela’s poem The Long Walk to Freedom compromised his beliefs and inspired leadership about freedom in Africa. He was persecuted by many and is one of the most inspirational leaders whom fought for reconciliation. He fought for the right of others futures and fate. His example of being a leader reflected kindness, love and equality. Liberation struggles in his poem inspired the freedom that we have today. He wrote, “I am not truly free if I am taking away someone else’s freedom, just as surely as I am not free when my freedom is taken from me.” (1995) Freedom is the equality of all races and both genders. Dr. King and Mandela both had so much in common with their visions for humanity and how it shaped people in the world today. Both of them were convicted for openly sharing their thoughts on human rights and freedom. They wanted freedom for themselves but also for all of those around them. They fought for freedom, were convicted for it, and now are legends in history. Dr. King, convicted of death and Mandela doing time in prison were unforgettable hero’s that gave us our reason to be free citizens. Through love, they inspire people everyday in Martin Luther King’s speeches and Nelson Mandela’s writings. Langston Hughes, another