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