Each and every year, on July 4th, Americans all over the world celebrate their independence.
And each year we are reminded that this freedom provides opportunity and experience unlike any other across the world.
As I sit here and reflect on what freedom means to me, I can't help but drift and wonder how families across the world can celebrate ADHD each and every year.
Is that a bit of a stretch? When the United States claimed their independence from Great Britain, they stood up for:

1. Freedom from oppression
2. Freedom from tyranny
3. Freedom from taxation (without representation)

And yes, we Americans stood up for so much more.
Because freedom incorporates our rights to free speech, free assembly, freedom of expression, and freedom from so many other things.
When I think of my clients and families, who have been touched by ADHD, I can't help but be reminded of these freedoms we fought so hard for.
I can't help but be reminded of the sacrifice we made to have these liberties in life.
And yet today, these families can often feel oppressed, unrepresented, excluded, and without voice.
Dare I say that some of my families even feel tyrannized and bullied because of this dynamic split between ADHD and non-ADHD.
If only ADHD existed as black and white, yes or no, or near and far.
Perhaps then ADHD would be clear cut and we could truly understand what is going on with our children.
But that is just not the case.
And fortunately, I wouldn't want to live in a world that is black or white, right or wrong, and ADHD or not.
Let us never forget that it is with our freedom that the United States has become known as the land of opportunity.
Let us never forget that while ADHD is a daily struggle, some of the greatest characteristics provide freedom from a linear world with little creativity.
When I speak with my peers and colleagues in the ADHD community, I often comment that I wouldn't want to live in a world without ADHD.
I wouldn't feel write living in a world that is plain, boring, and just tired of the same old thing every single day.
While you are celebrating our heroes, and the great sacrifices made this July 4th, take a moment to recognize the freedom and liberation that ADHD can bring to someone who is properly supported and nurtured.