To the editor:
Not many years ago, life in America was at its best. Most Americans were enjoying the American Dream. The world was at peace as World War II had ended.
Today America is gripped with fear, creating a generation of people who are depressed, confused, angry and feel there is no way out. Fear is a horrifying experience and all of us at one time have had to deal with fear, which affects our health, our way of life and those around us. There is the fear of losing our job, our homes, the loss of a loved one, that our children won’t be able to afford the cost of a college education.
There is fear that our physical wellbeing will change and there won’t be insurance to cover the doctor and hospital costs plus the cost of medications. Add to that the fear of growing old and having to spend the last years of our life in a hospital or nursing home.
There is the fear of wondering where and when a terrorist will strike America again. Mothers and fathers fear for the safety of their children serving in the military in faraway places. There is the fear of where and when the next natural disaster will occur.
Can fear be conquered or dealt with? The answer is “yes.” There is help; all you have to do is ask. Jesus said, “Come unto me all ye who labor and are heavy-laden and I will give you rest. I am The Way, The Truth and The Life.”
I write these words from experience. For 40 years, I had to deal with most of the fears noted in this letter, but on Sept. 6, 1973, I asked Jesus to help me straighten out my life and remove the fears within me. Since then, with the help of some great doctors and health care workers and the strength I get from serving the Lord, I have been able to face each new day without fear for I know He walks beside me and when I can’t walk, He carries me. I have survived cancer surgery, diabetes, kidney failure, high blood pressure, loss of hearing, plus two wars – Korea and Vietnam. I still work every day and enjoy life. I will be 82 years old on Feb. 7, 2012.
Howard E. Worthington
M/Sgt USAF Retired
Mapleton