To me, freedom is the ability to experience life to its fullest potential and to be recognized as a valuable member of the community. This is achieved when we realize that our community needs us and welcomes our contributions and, in turn, provides us with the support, acceptance, friendship, appreciation and respect that are so fundamental to human life.

Further, freedom is the autonomy that emerges when we understand that we are our own authors of the limitations we place on ourselves and we have the power to remove all restraints. We all have abilities and special talents that we can nurture to remove barriers whether self-imposed or not. When we exercise internal locus of control, we develop the confidence and the courage to live full and happy lives and cultivate the self-determination to attain our aims.

I often witness that this courage and self-determination is inherent to people who are involved with Semiahmoo House Society, whether they are the support workers or the people they support. Every day, they come together and enrich each other’s lives by simply being free to be themselves. By doing so, they spread seeds of independence and freedom and inspire others to self-actualize.

Once we find freedom, there is no looking back. We get this sense of liberty that comes with the confidence that we can lead our own destiny, achieve anything and fulfill our dreams.

By Rich Gorman, Board Chair, Semiahmoo House Society

Semiahmoo House Society, a non-profit organization located in Surrey/White Rock, exists to provide quality services and supports to people with disabilities and their families in the community. The Semiahmoo Foundation exists to fund, support and enhance the programs and services delivered by Semiahmoo House Society.