Good Evening, Everyone:

I hope that all of you had a very good week.  Mine was not bad at all.

Unfortunately, I’ve had the misfortune of attending a class being taught by someone with a very narrow and gloomy mindset.  I won’t argue that there aren’t some very troubling events going on in the world as we speak, but I really don’t appreciate being bombarded by a “twisted” extension of the evening news.

Our American Fore Fathers believed in a “definitive” separation of Church and State because historically religious organizations have impeded the progress of mankind by instilling fear and discouraging the development of innovative reasoning as was experienced during the Middle Ages in Europe.  By the time of the American Revolution, the Age of Reason had taken hold in Europe and the stifling grip of the Roman Catholic Church has been weakened.  Enlightened individuals had become weary of ruling Monarchies sanctioned by religious authorities claiming to know “the will of GOD”. 

The rulers of this period weren’t overly concerned with the apparent “inequities” of this time.  The “will of the people” was meaningless, only the “will of the ruling class and the Church was all that mattered”.  Today, there are nations that still adhere to a “theocratic” dogma. The Middle East is a prime example.  Many people fear the extremist tendencies of factions from this part of the world and with good reason.  Their goal is to overthrow governments they despise by “any means necessary”, which includes the murder of innocent bystanders and any other nation that supports their rulers. 

Fear has its’ place.  All living things have a natural instinct for “self preservation”.  It’s hard wired into our psyche, but it can also become a stumbling block, if not placed into the proper perspective.   This is not the first time our nation had to face both militaristic and economic challenges.  One of our most prominent presidents, Franklin D. Roosevelt had his share of similar challenges.  The phrase, “the Only Thing We Have to Fear Is Fear, Itself”, was emphasized during his first inaugural speech in 1933.  The entire text can be reviewed at the following link:

http://historymatters.gmu.edu/d/5057/

President Roosevelt had to deal the economic devastation of “The Great Depression” and later World War II. He encouraged our nation to address our difficulties with realism and courage.  He believed in government intervention and worked with Congress to initiate the necessary governmental legislation and programs to help invigorate our stalled economy.  He believed our nation would meet our challenges and prosper with the help of GOD.  I find the last segment of his speech to be somewhat inspiring:

We face the arduous days that lie before us in the warm courage of the national unity; with the clear consciousness of seeking old and precious moral values; with the clean satisfaction that comes from the stern performance of duty by old and young alike. We aim at the assurance of a rounded and permanent national life.

We do not distrust the future of essential democracy. The people of the United States have not failed. In their need they have registered a mandate that they want direct, vigorous action. They have asked for discipline and direction under leadership. They have made me the present instrument of their wishes. In the spirit of the gift I take it.

In this dedication of a Nation we humbly ask the blessing of God. May He protect each and every one of us. May He guide me in the days to come.

Frankly, this is what leadership is all about.  Dealing with what is ahead of you from a realistic, intelligent as well as optimistic perspective.  In order to lead, you have to have vision, inspiration and faith.  Fear is healthy, but it can’t be the only thing that motivates our actions.  Jesus Christ had his weak moments, but he asked GOD to strengthen him and let his will be done.  It was GOD’s plan to sacrifice his son’s life for the greater good of mankind.  Fear could have derailed everything.  I refuse to allow it to sabotage my future.  May GOD bless all of yours!

May Peace Be With All Of You,

Sistah Selah