Freedom Isn’t Free

As I sat here this morning I thought about writing on a few different topics, but as I opened up Word, this just came to my mind, leading me down this path. If you know me you know I love my country and love our military and first responders (We make it a point on vacation, like the picture to the left to visit historical sites and memorials, this one was in Maine). I greatly appreciate the sacrifices that they and their families make each and every day.

I have family that served faithfully and at one time I thought that might be something for me as well. The Army did not want me due to some medical reasons and then I went to school for Criminal Justice, but turned to a different path early. As we prepare to celebrate Independence Day, it is important to remember that each and every day someone is putting their life on the line for you. And never forget that, despite how you may feel about our country, someone does care about you and is willing to sacrifice for you. While it may not be a money cost, it is without a doubt the greatest sacrifice that can be made, especially by someone that doesn’t even know your name.

Truthfully nothing is free in life. Some sacrifice has to be made somewhere, someway, by somebody. I coach and talk a lot about Financial Freedom, what does that really mean? It means freedom to do what needs to be done, because finances are no longer an issue. That means that if you are financially free, you can quit your job tomorrow and not look back at all. Why? Because you made some sacrifices along the way to open the pathway to freedom.

As I listened to a financial independence podcast this morning (ChooseFI) it was noted that some people consider FI individuals to be cheap, always saving money, always looking for a deal and never spending much of anything. Truth is they are focused on preparing for the future, they are willing to make some sacrifices today to free them up for tomorrow. Some of these include, willing to drive an older car rather than the latest model or willing not to spend 100s of dollars eating out each month. The list goes on and to some this seems crazy, but to others, the ability to say good-bye to corporate job in your 30s/40s so that you can pursue something you want to sounds really appealing.

I hear it all the time, older cars are not reliable, or break down all the time. Meanwhile, I just read a post on FB the other day of a guy that has 500K miles on his original engine…WOW. I have a 160K on my 2013 Wrangler and the mechanic just told me she is in really good condition. How? Simple, care and maintenance go a long way. You can buy a really nice house that appreciates in value, but if you don’t take care of it, you are going to lose it over time. Cars and houses are similar in that sense. While a car depreciates over time, it can run forever, if you just take care of it, if you don't it will not take care of . Homes on the other hand will appreciate, but I’ve seen plenty of homes that could have appreciated so much better if they would have just been better maintained.

Have a wonderful Independence Day! Remember Freedom isn’t Free. What are you willing to sacrifice for someone or something that you want or need?

God Bless!