What do Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and the Fourth of July have in common? At first it would seem—not much. But all these recent holidays have converged in my mind.

From its beginning, America wanted to do life differently. Just as the Atlantic Ocean separated us from England physically, early Americans sought a separate identity—and that desire launched the spirit behind today’s fireworks and festivals.

But Mother’s and Father’s Day? They too are about independence. When a baby is born, we hold on tightly. Every aspect of their existence must be constantly and carefully monitored and controlled. 

Then they grow older and begin forming opinions, reveling in the power of saying no. “I do it by myself,” many insist as toddlers, whether they are capable of an action or not. 

I’m told that during my baby sister’s birth, when I stayed with Grandma, I trooped upstairs and went to bed all by myself. I was not quite 3 years old—but ready to relinquish my baby-of-the-family status. 

Eventually, children grow more capable—able to play alone, go to school, ride a bike. And our grip loosens, bit by bit.

Then comes the teen years, when they could change their lives forever by the decisions they make. Still, we must keep letting go.

And then by age 18 or college or moving out, for better or for worse and loving them always, we fully let go. Our job is done. Their life is their own.

The same desire characterizes the senior community. Many want to age in place, having full domain of their own home, doing life on their own terms. 

Needing help is understandable. When our bodies can’t keep pace with our wishes, we must accept where we’re at and what we need: family to run errands, in-home health care, assisted living and the like. 

But for those who move to a retirement community, the preferred option is almost always independent living. Yes, it’s more affordable—but even without financial factors, most of us would still choose to have a say in our health, habits and hobbies. To stand on our own two feet. To have agency.

So, as we celebrate our nation’s Declaration of Independence, let’s also honor the many personal declarations of independence we make across life’s stages—from toddlerhood to older age—and celebrate those, too.

WE’RE EXPANDING TO PUEBLO & FREMONT COUNTIES!

I have exciting news: we’re about to reach one of our long-time goals—expanding the BEACON to include Pueblo and Fremont counties!

Beginning with the August issue, readers in Pueblo, Cañon City and surrounding towns will enjoy a dedicated section in the magazine featuring:

• A local event calendar
• Clubs and support groups
• Fun After 50
• Beacon Bits
• And our popular Question of the Month

All the Colorado Springs content will remain—we’re simply providing valuable resources to an even larger senior population.

If you know of upcoming events or local news in the Pueblo/Fremont area of interest to our readers, please email [email protected]. We’re also looking for writers and photographers based in Pueblo or Fremont counties. There’s no substitute for experiencing a community firsthand to bring its stories—and images—to life.

In the heat of summer, this expansion feels like a cool, refreshing new beginning. We’re excited to dive into new waters—and we’re hoping to come up swimming!

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