Opinion

Don’t let fear take over your peace

Dear Lucy: I live in a nice neighborhood, but I still have an alarm system that I always make sure is on if I leave or when I go to bed.

Lucy Shaw

Dear Lucy: I live in a nice neighborhood, but I still have an alarm system that I always make sure is on if I leave or when I go to bed. Yesterday I got up and discovered that not only had I gone to bed without setting the alarm, but I had left my keys in the door. I not only feel stupid but I can’t stop thinking about what could have happened to me. It is such a shame to have to live like this. What can I do?

Dear Reader: When we read the newspapers or listen to the news we are hearing about the exceptions to the norm. With thousands of households in Memphis, it is a percentage of them that are burglarized, not all of them! Now if you happen to be one of those persons unfortunate enough to have a break in it becomes very personal and is dreadful. But a part of protecting ourselves is learning to protect our own mental health. Fear can be just as harmful to your health as a break in if you let it take over your peace! Don’t dwell on what is past and get yourself all worked up over something that didn't happen.

I absolutely believe that we should all do whatever we can to secure our homes and property. Closing and locking doors is basic. However, the good news is that you made it safely through the night and will now be a lot more careful. The other great news is that every now and then I think that God reminds us of grace. There is a Bible verse that says, “If the Lord does not keep the city, the watchman watches in vain.” I am so thankful that you and each of us is kept both day and night by a power that “never slumbers or sleeps.”

Rest well,

Lucy

(Check out Lucy Shaw’s website at http://www.heartworks4u.com.  Send your questions to her by U.S. mail to: Heartworks4U, LLC; 4646 Poplar Ave. Ste 201, Memphis, TN 38117 or by e-mail to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . You may also contact her for a free 20-minute consultation.)