by Cheryl Merrick
Fear is the robber of peace,
and the destroyer of hope.
It is doubt in yourself, others, and God,
running wild and taking you with it.
Fear is a knot in your stomach,
a thumping in your heart,
and an invisible hand gripping your chest.
Fear is the preemptor of love.
As we focus on our own needs;
"What will I do if --
he dies? if they do that? if the baby isn't perfect,
if we lose our job, or our relationship?" ;
our concern turns inward where, like weeds,
fear crowds out our love for others.
