Freedom or Slavery

“We can only be free if our souls are taut and aimed at something greater than ourselves. A lot of people say they would give up their lives for freedom, but not many are ready to use their freedom to build better lives.” (Jose Luis Martin Descalzo)?

In my vocation, I have worked with individuals who inspire to help others discover their own voice of self-worth. The writer’s use of the word ”freedom” was to address what he saw as the new slavery in modern society. A place where a person lives in freedom but not knowing or understanding freedom is the internal struggle to become who they see their self as and how such freedom influences their community. I am fortunate to know two such humans who use their freedom, in day-to-day actions, for the purpose to guide those to better their lives. The first is Andres Zamudio amdg who I have known since the 90s. He could have been an Engineer but instead became a Theologian/Philosopher. He took his experience and knowledge to the most unlikely audience; state imprisoned criminals. As a state prison Chaplain, he is both a spiritual guide and an educator. His efforts are not seen within or outside the walls of institutional criminalization of the mind and soul. His efforts are to help those free themselves from their own chains of slavery that became a reality with their incarceration.?

The other human is Samantha Bautista, M.S. Recently, she became a University Director. In this role, she is responsible for the retention and success of students who have a vision of a life that is different from their world of poverty?and the challenges that come with it. What is remarkable is that she achieved this within a short period after graduating from high school. She is a brilliant student of human nature. Her decision to use such abilities not for herself but for those with the greatest needs. She chose not to stay in the safe space of cubicles or in the confines of a classroom. Every day, she is a living example for those who seek a different way to live a life built on freedom to live a life worth living.?

Andres and Samantha’s lives reflect the efforts to challenge the new forms of slavery by their everyday actions for those who are learning to be free. Both inspire others to learn to identify the voice to demonstrate their freedom. They have chosen a life with risks for the purpose to better themselves and their community. They are not afraid to share their visions and to make it a reality. If they are not successful, Andres and Samantha will consider their attempts as learning opportunities to enhance their freedom to continue to challenge the new norms of self-imposed or institutional slavery.? ?