I understand that when our fundamental human needs are met, they tend to draw us into a particular state of mind—perhaps best described as serenity, capturing that sense of inner peace and calmness. In my perspective, this serenity symbolizes the deepest form of psychological harmony we can attain. However, through my personal experience navigating the American divide—between the psychological realm and the spiritual dimension—I’ve come to realize a deeper truth: these moments of independence and self-sufficiency are, in essence, echoes of our innate spiritual longing. The desires we pursue in the name of freedom often lead us to perceive ourselves as fragmented beings, torn between different realms of existence. Our biblical heritage offers valuable insight into how these longing originate from the very core of our being, providing us with fleeting glimpses of satisfaction through immediate gratification. Yet, beyond these temporary satisfactions lies a far richer and more profound experience—one rooted in divine grace that is deeply planted within our renewed hearts. It is through this renewal that we are introduced to a new, holistic understanding of our identity—an understanding that reveals how the American myth of independence has shaped us into a nation, and individuals as well, that are inherently divided. We often struggle to grasp the true nature of our identity because we cling to superficial images and illusions, failing to fully embrace the renewed paradigm that offers genuine wholeness. Only through God’s direct guidance—His influence on our spiritual understanding and our daily lives—can we truly comprehend our purpose and identity. Unfortunately, we often take our independence for granted, relying on self-righteousness or forgetting the divine path we are meant to walk. All of these issues stem from our failure to recognize the mysterious depths of God's ongoing work in our lives—an ongoing work that surpasses our limited understanding and invites us into a deeper, more unified truth. Would you like me to further adjust the tone or hone in on a particular aspect of this expanded reflection?