Dr. Terri Kennedy

Freedom 

"Hope is the dream of the waking man."
-- French Proverb

"Poverty is certainly a form of violence and oppression. But economic progress, particularly among just a select group within a country, is not a clear sign of freedom."

"The United States offers considerable liberties to its citizens relative to other nations. However, our very culture -- driven by values of material comfort and external conformity -- can also enslave us. We tend to be followers; slaves to our jobs, our lifestyles, family expectations, and media images. Those who break through are called 'stars' or 'mavericks.'"

"The right to breathe, think, eat, speak, pray, move, gather, work, procreate – and simply be yourself - should be considered divine rights. However, from a global perspective, there seems to be degrees of freedom depending on where and who you are."

"The Divine Plan is one of complete freedom; bondage is not God-ordained. But, here's the rub. We are bound because we are first free; the power which appears to bind us is the same power which can free us - as individuals and as nations. On a very basic level, it comes down to the powers of thought, belief and choice."

"Think about why children smile so often. They live in the present moment and are not afraid to express how they feel. They haven't been shackled by judgment and cultural norms."

"If you’re alive, there is always something you can do to better the situation. It starts with your perspective. That’s how a person can be free even within prison walls. It’s about spending time being still, defining your core values, and adjusting your vision."

"Once you claim emancipation, however, understand that you are then accountable to your own choices. With this realization, you can not play victim. If you’re feeling trapped, know that thought by thought, step by step, choice by choice – you can break free."

"Develop a daily ritual of reflection – it may include prayer, contemplation, meditation, journaling. These practices can be a gateway toward self-awareness and self-realization – the ultimate expression of liberty."

"Make a declaration of war against negativity. If you witness oppression, take action. Unlock the chains of fear and compliance, and allow your most divine self to emerge. Only then, will you truly be free."

To contact Dr. Terri Kennedy, call 212.901.6913 or email info@drterrikennedy.com. Read more "The Power of..." columns. Learn more about the Power Living philosophy.