It’s not everyday we get to sit back and reflect on our freedom. So when Independence Day rolls around each year, I like to silently meditate on our forefathers who adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.  Psych! Of course I don’t. That was forever ago! I’ve updated my holiday tradition to honor all of the badass people in this world who are living completely independent and free. Yeah, I’m talking about the single people!

Before you get your panties in a bunch, let me be clear. I feel infinitely grateful that my reality involves living in a country where I am free to follow my dreams and live my truth. I mean, hell, I get to work for a kickass adult novelty company and talk about sex toys all day! But I also recognize that back in the day (a.k.a. 1776), things were slightly (ok, massively) different in the U.S., particularly for women.  

If you were a woman in the colonial times, you were seen as a strictly domestic being. And while single women had certain legal rights back then, like being able to live where they pleased, write wills, and serve as legal guardians, they were often deemed odd “spinsters” if they were financially independent and successful. Spinsters?  Good grief, the stigma! 

Skip forward to the 1980’s and somewhere along the line, being single became synonymous with feeling lonely, eating TV dinners all by yourself, and generally wishing you were coupled up like all your married friends. Again, WTF!?  I can’t say that is much better than in 1776.

But let’s not dwell on the past. Instead, please join me in the 21st Century (thank goodness) by saluting the single and independent men and women this week!  Because now, finally, being single has taken on a whole new meaning and it’s a beautiful thing. Being single is a celebration of independence and self-worth. It is an incredible reminder that your relationship status does not define you or your happiness. Something we should all take note of, whether we’re in a relationship or not!

So when you are out-and-about this week at your 4th of July barbeques, carnivals, and picnics, take a moment to appreciate independence in a new light.  Raise a glass to the fact that women and men can engage (or not) in a romantic life however they see fit.  And please join me in a special toast for all the single people out there… let freedom ring!  

 ~ Miranda Buzzlove