As Fear Arises

In this week’s Torah portion Shelach Lecha,
We witness the power of fear.

As fear arises and takes hold
The heart constricts and vision narrows
And the stories fear insist upon
Are perceived as the only truths.

Often, as a result we lash out,
We close down,
We turn away.
We stop trusting or believing in possibilities.

It can be difficult to break this cycle
Because fear is contagious and strengthens itself.

How to see beyond fear?
How to break its stronghold?

The tradition says acknowledge the fear and do the best we can to respond to its presence with compassion.
And engage in actions that encourage relationship:
Give thanks.
Notice beauty.
Listen well.
Ask for help.
Seek guidance.
Engage with ritual.
Do acts of justice.
Speak words of blessing.

These actions can help shift our perspectives,
Create connections
And loosen the bonds of fear.
These actions can help us see that fear isn’t all there is.

For the sake of each other and all earth,
Let us practice denying fear the power
To shape our perceptions and determine our behavior.

Each day, let’s engage in acts of connection.
May love and strength guide our way.

--Rabbi Yael