I had a dream recently that is typical for my unconscious nighttime adventures.  I dreamt I was on a beach vacation with a group of family and friends, but was stressed out because we all had identical black suitcases and I was constantly confused about which was mine.  I went from one to the other, certain I had found mine, only to reach in and discover that it was someone else’s.  I was anxious to be missing my own belongings and worried that I would be unjustly accused of theft.  Also, I was worried about how badly I needed a shower…

I know there are some particular anxieties revealed in this dream that might interest some psychotherapist, but, for today let’s focus on the feelings of anxiety in general.  This dream reflects what God and I know about worry in my life.  It has played a starring role too often.  In response, God directed me to choose a theme for my year– the theme of No Fear. I rarely even make New Years Resolutions so choosing a theme for a year is a totally new experience for me, but it’s sorely needed. Others may not see fear as prominent in my life because I don’t always act based on these feelings, but God and I know I have to beat them down regularly.

As I write, I am cautious about using  the word, “fear” because I have rarely had my life or safety threatened in a way that others may have experienced, and I don’t want to minimize those intense events.  Worry or anxiety, however, has fear at it’s core.  And fear, played out in our minds and bodies over time has a negative impact on our health and quality of life.  Research demonstrates that it puts us at higher risk for cancer, auto-immune disorders and chronic inflammation and illness.  More importantly, it is like a vice on your life.  Over time, fear squeezes out joy and traps you in its dreary grip, making you feel like you will be in its forced service forever.

For parents of children with special needs, fear can be a daily occurrence.  You may be afraid that your child with autism, who wanders out of your watchful eye, will run into danger.  You may have a depressed child that you fear might harm him or herself when left alone.  I worried about how my child would act at school and if she would face rejection. I was anxious about taking trips on an airplane lest I not return to raise my children.  The list of potential worries in parenting are endless. And to top it off, I was afraid to stop being afraid because I thought that letting my guard down might lead to disaster.

If this sounds at all familiar, join me in living a Year with No Fear.  In Isaiah 41:10, God tells us, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my mighty righteous hand. ” It is worth the risk to let go and let your guard down because God’s guard is always up! The magnificence of that will be the topic of another day.  For now, let’s just make the commitment to stand against fear.   It will be a struggle and I need accountability.  Do you?  Let’s help each other.