Handicapped By Fear
"Let not your hearts be troubled. Neither let it be afraid". Jesus Christ, John 14:1
It is said that, throughout his 26-year pontificate, one of St. John Paul II’s most used phrases was, “Do not be afraid” (also phrased “Be not afraid”). From the website, 'Aleteia'.
There are many words and conditions that could best describe our
present world; but how many words paint a better picture than FEAR?
What kind of world would there be if we were all freed from FEAR?
Our planet is afraid of being wiped out by a meteorite.
Our nations are afraid of being attacked by each other.
Our cities, town, and villages are afraid of violence and woe.
Chaos covers the world; some broadcasted, but most ignored.
FEAR, like a noose around our necks, is choking us to death.
Were I a fan and fashioned my life along the lines of 'popular culture,
or if I were to focus upon and receive all my news from social media
and other news outlets, I would surely be afraid. I would not consider
loving my neighbor as myself, but rather, I'd fear him. If I chased the
winds of conspiracy theories or sought to ride the waves of Chata and
propaganda, I would be afraid.
I am a fan of 'Wild West' cowboy' movies.
They often paint pictures of us that show
both the way we were and the way we are.
Just last night, in a movie about The Pony Express,
there was a brief scene that portrayed one of the
great handicaps in our troubled world today.
About six trouble makers, all of whom carried
at least one gun, came to town. And as always,
they were looking for trouble. The sheriff confronted
them on the street, making it clear that he was not afraid
of them and warned the ring leader that he would not hesitate
to arrest them if they caused trouble. After a brief 'war of words'
with the sheriff, the leader backed down. As everyone was walking away,
a youngster who witnessed the entire encounter asked the sheriff, "Why did he back down?" The sheriff's answer was both enlightening and poignant. Enlightening to those of us who are blind or stumble needlessly, and poignant for those who are weak. The sheriff replied, "Anyone who needs all those guns is afraid of everything".
At this juncture, I hasten to say, "This is not about the guns we love, or the guns we love to hate, but about the fear that kills with or without the guns". It's about the guns that mask the fear, but the plague of fear remains. Unless freed and cured from the bondage of fear, we mortals are doomed.
My prayer is, 'Lord, let us not be afraid'.
060222PSCtest, If only my wish would come true , Anoucheka Gangabissoon
Copyright © Curtis Johnson | Year Posted 2022
Post Comments
Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.
Please
Login
to post a comment