"La libertad es algo que muere a menos que se use."

Freedom, at its core, is an active state of being. It’s not something that can be passively left on a shelf, gathering dust. If we don’t use our freedom, it risks becoming irrelevant, shrinking away as if it was never there. This idea speaks to the necessity of engaging with our freedoms—whether that’s freedom of speech, freedom of choice, or any personal liberties we hold dear.

Historically, this sentiment has echoed in various forms throughout pivotal moments. Think about the civil rights movement in the United States during the 1960s. Leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. didn't just sit back hoping for change. They actively exercised their right to protest, to speak, and to demand justice. If they hadn't used their freedom to assemble and to voice their demands, the progress made in civil rights might have been delayed—or perhaps never realized.

Now, let’s ground it with a real-life example. Picture a writer in a country that prides itself on freedom of the press. If this writer only writes about non-controversial, safe topics, never challenging the status quo, the true power of a free press isn’t being exercised. But when the writer takes on tough subjects—corruption, human rights abuses, or governmental failures—they're utilizing their freedom, keeping it vibrant and strong. It’s not just about having the freedom; it’s about using it to make an impact.

If you’re wondering how to apply this in your own life, start by identifying the freedoms you cherish. Do you value your right to vote? Make it a point to participate in every election. Do you believe in freedom of expression? Don’t shy away from sharing your honest opinions, even if they might be controversial. The key is to engage actively, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient. The more you use your freedoms, the stronger they become.

Imagine you’re in a small town where no one bothers to vote because they think their individual vote doesn’t matter. Over time, fewer and fewer people turn up at the polls. Eventually, a small group with their own agenda takes control because they mobilized their supporters. The town’s general population didn’t lose their right to vote, but by not using it, they let it slip away. Now, they’re stuck with leaders who don’t represent their interests. See how quickly unused freedom can lead to a loss of power?

So, what’s the takeaway here? Think about your daily life and the freedoms you enjoy. Make a conscious effort to use them. Speak up in meetings, vote in local elections, read books that challenge your perspectives. The more you use your freedoms, the less likely they are to fade away.

It’s like a muscle. If you don’t exercise it, it atrophies. Freedom works the same way. Use it or risk losing it. And remember, it’s not just about grand gestures—every small act of exercising your freedom counts. So, get out there and make your voice heard, your vote count, and your choices matter.