Freedoms

Some say that J.R.R. Tolkien, author of The Lord of the Rings and other epic stories, wrote to carry on the legacy of his close friends, Rob Gilson and Geoffrey Smith, also writers, who had fought and died during World War I. Tolkien also fought in the war but survived. Some say that Tolkien would not have written so much, so well, without this burden.

After hearing this, a phrase came into my mind, “Responsibility without burden.” I thought about others and wondered if any of these are possible in my own life.

Love without obligation.

Enjoyment without measurement.

Achievement without comparisons.

Inspiration without rules.

Dedication without expectations.

Laughter without envy.

Labor without resentment.

Longevity without addiction.

I don’t think they are absolutely attainable, but maybe the true measure of one’s freedom is coming close to these ideals, or at least aiming for them.