Note from Michelle: My spiritual director shared this poem about fear by Rosemary Wahtole Trommer with me. I thought you might find it of value, too.
And when fear comes to the door bringing flowers
acting as if it’s a friend,
it’s okay to not want to let it in.
It’s okay to lock the door—
it’ll make you feel as if you’re doing something.
Fear will enter anyway.
At least it won’t expect a hug.
It won’t wash its hands,
not even when you ask nicely.
And it is more contagious than any virus—
spreads without sneezes or coughs.
It won’t leave when you ask, but
there are ways to make it quieter—
like inviting a few others to join you,
preferably gratitude, compassion, love,
kindness, vulnerability. These friends
always come when asked, wearing
the loveliest perfume. They change
the conversation, the way lemon
and honey change the bitter tea.
They remind you who you are,
invite you to look out the window
and see how beautiful the world
when the shadows are long.
Couldn’t be more timely–I so needed this calming thought today.
Love that image of fear as an unwanted guest–so apt.
Beautiful! Thanks for sharing. I love the last line most of all!
along with the above, I also find it helpful to talk to a friend. It’s a way of outing fear – and sometimes defuses it. I too have found out trying to keep her away just doesn’t work.