The Meaning of Independence to Me
Dewi Fadhilah Soemanegara
Founder of Aksa Academy Indonesia | 10+ years Remote Worker | Mentor | Certified Listener | Journalist & Content Writer
Reflecting on the Essence of Independence
As we welcome Indonesia's Independence Day in 2023, I'm filled with a desire to reflect on the extent to which I've been able to embrace and make the most of this cherished privilege of freedom.
Answering the call of my innermost desires, as a luxury, doesn't happen by chance in my daily life. There was a time when I found myself trapped on a path that didn't align with my true calling – a path that didn't match my interests, talents, and genuine passions.
Independence, to me, is an unparalleled and invaluable moment in time. It's an opportunity to heal emotional wounds and intergenerational traumas that have persisted for centuries and continue to leave their marks. Independence provides the strength to heed my calling, to follow the path that has always been my destiny.
A profound urge sweeps over me, prompting a journey of introspection. How deeply have I embraced and maximized the privilege of freedom, a treasure that forms the cornerstone of our nation's identity?
In the pursuit of my innermost desires, I am reminded of the profound luxury that it is—to heed the call of my conscience. It's not mere happenstance that I am able to mold this principle into the fabric of my everyday life. Reflecting on my journey, I realize that I have been fortunate enough to align my path with my true calling, in contrast to moments when I strayed from my genuine interests, innate talents, and passionate aspirations.
For me, independence signifies an irreplaceable and invaluable juncture in time. It's a rare opportunity to mend the emotional wounds and transgenerational traumas that have haunted our land for 3.5 centuries, leaving an indelible imprint on our collective psyche. This independence becomes my inner sanctum, a sanctuary of strength, driving me to fulfill my purpose and follow the trajectory that fate had preordained.
Indubitably, everyone bears their own priorities, their own versions of freedom, each reflecting a unique narrative. While not all may possess the liberty to choose their circumstances, I firmly believe that the innate freedom to embrace one's authentic self is a universal birthright—emancipation beyond constraint.
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Turning the pages of history, we encounter the poignant chapters of Indonesia's struggle for sovereignty. We recall the relentless battles against colonial powers, and the arduous efforts to break free from the chains of oppression. The colonial era that spanned centuries left a legacy of resilience and unity among the Indonesian people. This unity fueled the movement towards freedom, nurturing a shared vision that transcended diverse cultures and languages.
On August 17, 1945, under the leadership of remarkable figures such as Soekarno and Hatta, Indonesia declared its independence—a proclamation that resonated across the archipelago and beyond. This audacious act was not merely inked on paper; it was a collective surge of determination, an embodiment of the unwavering spirit of an entire nation.
Today, as the Indonesian flag flutters in the wind, it's not just a colorful piece of cloth—it's a symbol of unyielding resilience, a testament to the struggles and sacrifices that led us to where we stand. Our independence is an ongoing journey, a perpetual commitment to nurturing freedom, unity, and progress.
In this celebration of independence, let us remember that true liberation extends beyond physical boundaries. It is the freedom to pursue our passions, amplify our unique voices, and embrace our individuality. It is a commitment to cherish the battles fought by our forebearers and to continue building a brighter future, rooted in unity, diversity, and unwavering determination.
So, as we approach this momentous day, I find myself not only celebrating the past but also embracing the present, as I weave the threads of my personal journey into the vibrant tapestry of Indonesia's evolving narrative of independence.
Everyone has their own priorities. Not everyone can choose to be 'free' in various interpretations. But I'm certain that every individual in this world has been granted the freedom to choose to be their authentic selves.