[Spirit Dancer]

When we feel fear strongly, it's very difficult to remind ourselves that there are forces in this world that are stronger than fear. Fear tends to take control of us, to overwhelm us, to put us in a state in which we can notice only the fear. And in those circumstances, the fear tends to build on itself like a fire, growing as it catches hold of other parts of ourselves.

If we can keep our minds open to the idea that there are forces stronger than fear, though, we can provide ourselves with a way out of the fear. As I grow older, I find that I have ways to counteract fear when it appears, and most of them have to do with reminding myself of the reality of the "big picture" rather than focusing so strongly on the particular situation that's causing me fear.

Fear depends on our attention to survive. If we don't give it the attention that it needs, if we're able to focus our thoughts elsewhere and maintain our peace of mind, we're making sure that fear doesn't have the conditions that it needs in order to thrive. If I can focus on my faith in the good things in life, then my fear will not rise past a healthy level--and yes, a certain level of fear can be very healthy.

Faith does not mean a particular set of beliefs in God as defined by any particular religious groups. Faith is our knowledge that life and God are positive, loving forces that will take care of us, and that have been doing so since we arrived on this planet. Faith is the knowledge the the truths in life are stronger than the lies that many people spread in an attempt to gain whatever they need or want for themselves.

Fear is as strong as we let it be. Faith is the same way. Which do you choose to be the stronger force in your life?