Live Fearlessly

There is a ton of rhetoric floating around about fear. 

It reminds everyone not to fear.  

We hear and probably have said some of these

 “don’t fear,” 

“Fear is like sitting in a rocking chair, it gives you something to do, 

but it doesn’t get you anywhere.”  

“There is nothing to fear but fear itself.”   

“Fear is a liar.”  

Ironically, I have come to the realization that for many it is just words.  

We say, “Fear no one,” but we fail to speak because some will be offended.  

So, we hold our tongue in fear.   

We are free, 

but our children can’t go to school in safety 

because of the increase in school violence.  

Consequently, they live in fear.  

Parents and teachers held hostage, 

at the mercy of the children, they are to mentor and teach.  

They wring their hands, afraid to discipline.    

Even policemen 

find their hands tied because of the fear of repercussions if they act 

even when it’s justified.   

We are scared to salute the flag, 

or pray or say the name of God, 

unless we are swearing, in public out of fear.   

Going to cars and walking after dark is a definite no, no.  

That’s when you’re in the most danger from predators.   

There was a time when 

parents were not afraid to discipline a child, 

school violence was minimal, 

and we were not scared, 

we walked alone after dark without worries.    

We were proud of our country and praying or speaking 

God’s name was not a reason to fear.   

It’s time to stop being afraid and live fearlessly.