Independent yet without freedom

Today is the independence day of Indonesia and I'm thankful for that. We are now an independent nation but I'm not sure if we have enjoy the true freedom. In fact, many people of Indonesia still don't live their lives as free people. It happens not only to those who come from low level of economy but also to that of high places.

So, what is the characteristics of a person of freedom? Here are some, according to my simple thoughts.

• He has no fear of telling or acting based on the truth. Truth is a safe haven.
  
• He enjoys the confidence and dignity as a citizen of his nation. He shows no signs of inferiority in front of foreigners. He is proud of his nation eventhough it's not flawless.
• He believes that what he does and says always affect other people's life, little or much.
• He is fully responsible for his deeds and speeches. Blaming others is not his style.
• He values honesty and integrity as the most important qualities one needs to acquire.
• His desire is to give more and more, not to gather and collect as much as he can for himself. Greedy is not found in his dictionary of life.
• He is open to critics and appreciates corrections. He hates yes-men but he loves friends who rebuke with love. Nevertheless, he can respond wisely to insults.
• He clings to the principle that his destiny is in his hand by the will of God. If possible, he won't let anyone makes a decision for him.
• He pays respect to others but it doesn't mean he always agree with them. He is not hesitant to present his thoughts from his point of view.
• His belief is that he can do nearly anything if only he wants to do it badly enough. He is not a friend of timidity and is not easily intimidated.
• He believes to the potential of himself and his fellow people.
  

That's all for now. Am I a free person now? That's where I'm heading to, for sure.

There is no other way to become a truly free person than by becoming a true servant of God everyday.