In Dependence

Today, and likely all weekend, we celebrate our country’s birthday, Independence Day. Let the picnics and gatherings and fireworks commence! Funny how the 4th of July celebrations involve noise and pyrotechnics—maybe this harks back to the sounds of war and gunfire that are part of our freedom heritage?

There are so many positive things about independence. What can be wrong about living in freedom from the control of some other person, country, or entity? When we are independent, we are self-reliant and self-sufficient, not relying on others for support or guidance. I have always valued my independent spirit and considered it an asset. While I appreciate help from others (when I ASK for it!), I certainly treasure my independence.

There are days when I have random thoughts on what losing my independence might look like. Maybe it is normal to think these thoughts at my age; to prepare myself and consider how I might react if I am no longer able to independently accomplish everything on my to-do list. Or possibly I am remembering the Scripture verse, John 21:18, “…when you were younger, you used to dress yourself and go where you wanted; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands and someone else will dress you and lead you where you do not want to go.” These were Jesus’ words to his disciples, referring to his Passion and death. They also remind me of my dad as his Alzheimer’s progressed, when even basic decisions were beyond his capabilities and caregivers made those choices for him.

Are there negative aspects to our independence? Can we become too independent in our actions and thoughts? Are there times when my strongly guarded and assertive independence causes damage to my relationship with God and to others? How many of the sins I commonly commit are the result of being too independent? 

Is the Holy Spirit nudging me to take a step back from independence? If so, what does that even look like? It occurs to me this would require really living in dependence on God…depending on His love, His grace, His mercy, healing and forgiveness; depending on the love of the people He places in my life; celebrating my total reliance on God; depending on Him for peace in my heart and in the world.

May we all strive for that in(ner)dependence. In God we trust.