Day 34: Sometimes you make things worse: a parable.

I'm a worrier. I've never been officially diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, but by golly I'm certain it's there. I used to be afraid of everything. Literally paralyzed by irrational fear, paranoia even, that doom was impending. Kidnappers, murderers, lightning, plagues, authority figures, fire, vampire bats, public speaking, even aliens, ghosts and bears (oh my)

I have since learned to put my trust in the Lord. Sure, most nights I have a hard time quieting my thoughts enough to sleep. I'm still petrified of public speaking (and bats) but it's not as bad as it used to be.
Five or so years ago, I would never have agreed to move my entire family 2000 miles away from the safety of everyone and everything I have ever known. I trust that there is a reason for being in this place at this time.

Here is the parable.

There was once a man who gathered together his family onto a large boat.
Though the boat was large, the weight of the people and their goods caused the boat to sink low in the water.
It came to pass that the boat struck rock and caused the hull to become weak. 
The waves washed onto the deck of the boat 
and the children laughed and splashed in the waters thereon.
The woman Tiffany fretted and wept and wailed and tormented the man, certain the boat would sink, and all would perish.
The man spake unto the woman, saying "Sometimes your worry causes others to worry. Sometimes your fear causes others to fear. Have Faith."

Actually what he said was "Sometimes you make things worse"
I think he wanted to add  "Just sit down and shut the hell up."

So friends, the message of my parable is this:

Joshua 1:9 (2010 Mutual theme)
Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. 

Psalms 56:11
In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.

Sometimes when it seems as though the boat is sinking, we just need to sit down and shut up. Panic is contagious. Be of good cheer and do not fear! The Lord will see us safely to shore. What good can come of spreading fear? 
Sometimes you make things worse.
What do we have to fear from men?

And that's all I've got to say on this health care business back home.

Go on and criticize. I'm not scared :)