Soul Path Insights

Freedom is something we often take for granted. Recently, I watched a video and listened to a podcast about Princesses Shamsa and Latifa of Dubai, whose harrowing attempts to escape their restrictive lives under the UAE’s ruling family opened my eyes to the true cost of freedom. These women risked everything, seeking what many of us rarely stop to appreciate. Their courage made me reflect deeply on my own life and how easy it is to overlook the liberties we enjoy daily.

Living in America, where freedom is ingrained in every aspect of life, it’s easy to become desensitized to its value. But stories like these challenge us to reframe our perspective. They remind us that even in this modern era, many people must fight for the rights and choices we often take for granted. As I reflected on their stories, I couldn’t help but feel both humbled and grateful.

Freedom Through a Different Lens
Here in the United States, freedom is woven into the fabric of our society. We can speak our minds, practice our faith, and make choices about our lives without fear of repression. These liberties feel so natural that we rarely pause to think about their immense value. But hearing about Princess Latifa’s daring escape attempt in 2018, where she fled by sea only to be captured and returned to Dubai, was a stark reminder of the disparities that exist globally.

Her story resonated deeply with me, not just because of her courage but because it underscored a truth I’ve witnessed in my own life: freedom is a privilege, not a guarantee. I’ve seen how people from different walks of life fight battles—some visible, some invisible—to claim a fraction of the liberties I’ve always known. It made me think of Galatians 5:13, which says, “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” This scripture challenges me to view freedom not just as a right but as a responsibility.

The Cost of Freedom
Freedom isn’t free. It’s often paid for with sacrifices, whether through personal struggles, societal movements, or even historical conflicts. For me, this truth became real when I transitioned from military life to civilian life. That transition was both liberating and challenging. The discipline and structure of the military had shaped my identity, and stepping into the less structured civilian world felt disorienting at first. But I also realized that the freedom to reinvent myself, to choose my path, and to embrace new opportunities was a gift. That journey taught me that freedom and responsibility go hand-in-hand—you must take ownership of your choices to fully experience liberty.

Princess Shamsa’s story of escaping her family estate in England in 2000 and being forcibly returned to Dubai is another chilling reminder of the cost of freedom. Her story calls to mind the words of Nelson Mandela: “For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains, but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.” Shamsa’s courage inspires me to think about how I can use my own liberties to uplift others.

Soul Insights

How can we better appreciate and exercise our freedoms? Here are five soul insights that have shaped my perspective:

1. Freedom Is a Responsibility: As Galatians 5:13 reminds us, freedom isn’t just about personal gain; it’s an opportunity to serve and uplift others. Every choice we make in a free society has the power to impact those around us.
2. Gratitude Changes Perspective: Practicing gratitude daily can help us recognize the freedoms we often overlook. When I think about the opportunities I’ve had—from career growth to personal expression—I’m reminded of how fortunate I am.
3. True Freedom Requires Courage: Stories like those of Shamsa and Latifa highlight that freedom often demands bravery. Whether it’s speaking up for what’s right or stepping out of our comfort zones, courage is the foundation of true liberation.
4. Advocate for Others: Isaiah 1:17 calls us to “Seek justice. Defend the oppressed.” We can use our freedoms to amplify the voices of those who are silenced and advocate for a more just world.
5. Freedom Is Worth Fighting For: As Franklin D. Roosevelt said, “In the truest sense, freedom cannot be bestowed; it must be achieved.” Whether it’s personal growth or societal change, freedom often requires perseverance and sacrifice.

Reflecting on Privilege
It’s easy to complain about the noise of a free society—the political debates, the social media arguments, the sheer abundance of choices we’re faced with daily. But as I’ve reflected on the stories of Shamsa and Latifa, I’ve realized these inconveniences pale in comparison to the struggles of those living under oppression. John 8:36 reminds us, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” True freedom, both spiritual and societal, is a gift we should never take lightly.

Final Thoughts:
Freedom is a privilege, one that comes with both opportunities and responsibilities. It’s a gift to be cherished and a responsibility to be exercised thoughtfully. The stories of Princesses Shamsa and Latifa remind us of the courage it takes to fight for liberty and the gratitude we should feel for the freedoms we enjoy. Let’s use our liberties to advocate for others, to grow, and to create a world where freedom is not a privilege for the few but a right for all.