Earlier this week, on the 8th of May, the world marked the 80th anniversary of VE Day—Victory in Europe Day. It’s a day that holds deep meaning for so many, including myself. It’s a moment to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by generations before us. For me, freedom begins with gratitude—gratitude for all those who fought in the Second World War and the First before it. They stood up against tyranny and fascism, and because of their bravery, we can live in a world that, while not perfect, is far more just and free than it could have been.
I often think about what life might have been like if I had been born during that time. The truth is, I wouldn’t be here. I was born hard of hearing. Back then, under fascist regimes with ideals of a so-called “perfect race”, people like me wouldn’t have had the chance to live freely—perhaps not even live at all. That knowledge makes me hold my freedom today even more tightly.
But freedom isn’t just about politics or war. It’s also deeply personal. It’s about the ability to live authentically, to be yourself, and to accept who you are without fear or shame.
In my past, I’ve been in relationships where, looking back now, I know I wasn’t free to be fully myself. I bent and shrank to fit into someone else’s idea of who I should be. That’s not freedom. That’s survival. And it took me time—and courage—to realise I deserved better.
That’s why I’m so grateful for my husband, Ryan. With him, I don’t have to hide parts of myself. With him, I am truly free to be the person I was born to be—neurodiverse, passionate, creative, and a little chaotic at times, but wholly, unapologetically me.
Freedom is living in truth.
Freedom is knowing you belong.
Freedom is loving—and being loved—for who you are.
As we remember the past and honour those who gave us the freedoms we enjoy today, let’s also protect and nurture the freedoms that matter deeply in our homes, relationships, and inner worlds.
If this resonated with you, please like, comment, and subscribe to stay connected. I’d love to hear—what does freedom mean to you?
What does freedom mean to you?
The bad and your parenting journey 