“So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself—nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance. In every dark hour of our national life a leadership of frankness and vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory.“
These are words from Franklin D. Roosevelt’s first inaugural address in 1933. I encourage you to listen to the entire address @ https://www.c-span.org/video/?5792-1/president-franklin-roosevelt-1933-inaugural-address.
You will find words of optimism and encouragement so sadly missing from today’s leadership team. You will find an intelligence and an engaging personality who stood at the podium laced in full leg braces from his waist to the soles of his shoes. Whether you agree with his politics or not, this was a man dedicated to leadership and he understood that buoying the soul of the American people was necessary to success. He understood that doing something was better than being frozen through fear of an unsure outcome. He understood that living was more important than hiding.
So, in today’s unsure world where the media wants you to be afraid, and some in government want you to cower in your homes, take heart in Roosevelt’s keen discernment that fearing fear is not the answer. Use common sense, and do not be afraid, for history has proven time and again that fear leads to dependence and dependence leads to loss of individual choice. Happy New Year!!