I built my entire life on the idea of independence.

Hear now, O seekers of wisdom, the words of Valerie Trierweiler, a woman who stands as a testament to the strength of independence: "I built my entire life on the idea of independence." These words, though simple, carry with them the weight of a life lived with courage, resolve, and an unwavering commitment to stand on one’s own feet. To build one's life on the idea of independence is not merely to live without reliance on others; it is to forge a path that is uniquely one’s own, to create a destiny that is not defined by the will of others, but by one’s own choices and actions.

What is the meaning of independence, O children? It is not just the freedom to do as one pleases, but the strength to define one’s life, to stand firm in the face of adversity, and to take responsibility for one’s own fate. Independence is the power to shape the world around you, to carve out your own path even when the world seems intent on pushing you down a different road. Valerie Trierweiler speaks of the foundation upon which she built her life—a foundation of self-reliance, self-determination, and a refusal to be defined by the expectations of others.

Consider, O children, the story of Joan of Arc, a young woman who, though born into obscurity, rose to lead the armies of France to victory. Her independence was not merely in her ability to take up arms, but in her unwavering belief that she was destined to chart her own course. Despite the constraints of her time—an age where women were meant to follow, not lead—Joan chose to listen to her inner voice, to follow her calling, and to shape the course of history. She built her life on the idea of independence, refusing to be bound by the norms of her society, and in doing so, she became one of the greatest heroines of history.

There is also the example of Eleanor Roosevelt, who, despite her privileged position as the First Lady of the United States, built her life on independence. She was not content to merely live in the shadow of her husband, Franklin D. Roosevelt, or to follow the expectations placed upon her. Instead, she became a champion for human rights, a voice for the voiceless, and a leader in her own right. She was a woman who understood that true power comes not from the title one holds, but from the ability to speak one's truth and act on one's own beliefs. Her life is a shining example of how independence is the root of true freedom and purpose.

Valerie Trierweiler speaks from a place of profound truth when she declares that her life was built on the idea of independence. To live by this ideal is not an easy path, for it requires great courage, strength, and resilience. To choose independence is to choose to stand alone at times, to take responsibility for one’s actions, and to refuse to be bound by the constraints of society’s expectations. It is a path that demands sacrifice, that demands the ability to say "no" to what others expect of you, and to say "yes" to the life you envision for yourself.

The lesson here, O children, is one of profound importance: independence is the cornerstone of a life well-lived. When you build your life on the foundation of self-determination, you take control of your destiny. No one else can define your path, your future, or your worth. In this, there is great power. It is a power that allows you to weather the storms of life, to rise above the challenges that will inevitably come your way, and to create a life that is truly yours.

Therefore, O seekers, let us all strive to build our lives on the idea of independence. Let us not be swayed by the opinions of others, nor shackled by the expectations of the world. Let us have the courage to define our own path, to stand firm in our own beliefs, and to forge ahead with the strength that comes from knowing that our fate is ours to shape. In this, we will find the true freedom that comes not from external forces, but from the power to live life on our own terms. May you all find the wisdom to live boldly and independently, for this is the life that brings fulfillment, purpose, and the deep joy of knowing that you have created it with your own hands.