The usual scene unfolds. The flag is unfurled. Rose petals fall. Haven’t seen that anywhere else in the world. Kurta pajamas, mostly white. Flags pinned on, fluttering in the breeze. A crisp speech. The same ‘Patriotic’ songs echo. Kids perform to them with moves adapted from Bollywood. Adolescents enveloped in a certain busyness that befits their age. And the adults, well, those not on the management committee or without performing kids, busy with their conversations about neighbouring plots and other ‘nuisances.’

When they pause Lata Mangeshkar & A.R. Rahman to switch on the microphone, it conks out like clockwork. Every single time. India might land on Mars, but the neighborhood sound system can’t make it past the fifth second of it being switched on.

It’s all the same. I turn up, every time. To revel in the sameness and to feel those goosebumps when the national anthem plays.

As I sip a strong, dark coffee post-ceremony, some strong thoughts dance on the keyboard. Here are five. Groucho Marx quipped, “These are my principles. If you don’t like them, I have others.” I am no Groucho Marx and if these five don’t sit well with you, sorry. Blame it on the coffee and read about the dosa.

So. Here are the five.

1. Independence from foreign rule demands interdependence among us. It requires raising our standards and lowering the decibels of argument. Trading rudeness for understanding. It requires trading impoliteness for understanding and patience.
2. “She’s becoming an independent kid,” said the teacher recently. A nudge for everyone in the room to step back and let the child step up. Independence requires taking responsibility. Making better choices becomes possible every single moment.
3. Choices come with consequences. Independence goes sour when we cherish the freedom to choose but dodge the fallout. A big heart, broad shoulders, and tough skin—essential gear for the truly independent.
4. Indifference is the decay of independence. As Elie Wiesel wisely noted, “The opposite of love is not hate. It is apathy.” The heart of freedom shrivels when we stop caring.
5. Freedom is precious, but what is it to be truly free? Naval Ravikant nails it: “People who live far below their means enjoy a freedom that people busy upgrading their lifestyles can’t fathom.” Choose upgrades wisely. That can be a motto for life.

And here’s a bonus point. Point number 6. Outside the list. Freedom is the chance to get better every day. To help one another and become the best version of ourselves, without the weight of dogma or the sting of diatribe. To grow old with dignity and poise.

Choices!