1st Prize Winner
Age Group 10-12

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Freedom

by Gillian Farroll, age 11

           There are certain needs common to all men. One of these is freedom. In the United States, a person may live where he wishes or move to the place of his choice. He may go to whatever church he pleases or attend none at all. Anyone in the United States may work at any job he chooses. The only limitations are his own ability and training. These are some of the precious rights guaranteed by the laws of the United States and of other countries where freedom exists.

           The practice of freedom is based on the idea that every person is important and that each person is different from others. Everyone in a free country has the right to decide for himself how his life is to be spent without government interference. A free society also allows everyone the right to change his mind. A man can change his job, his church, or address without permission from any government agency.

           These liberties have been for so long a part of the lives of people in free countries that they often are taken for granted. In nations where freedom doesn't exist, however, people don't enjoy these rights. A person who is free to make his own decisions may sometimes do foolish things. Those to whom freedom is important, however, believe that this risk is better than constant, strict control.

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