LEVELS OF FEAR
There can be numerous plateaus of we call “fear:”
And, being aware of that fact can be an important part of our nationwide efforts to prepare for possibilities of Terrorist attacks. A “little bit of fear” and anticipation of potential danger may be a very good precautionary thing to have, but the grander versions can be best held for use if and when such problems become more real and threatening.
We have in place today nationally, a rather hastily devised system of color coding which enables us to let all concerned be warned of potential trouble and the extent and intensity there of. I think it has proved itself to be worthy and a good step for introductory purposes. It is essential that all people be made aware of the danger we might face. I remember, quite vividly, the wail of the air raid siren during World War II in England. There was nothing more desolate among common sounds and yet it held a sincere message we felt it best to be attentive to when we heard that mournful wail.
Our present color code system does so in much the same way but without the dramatic element of sound which could send a genuine chill down the spine of many hearers - sensitive, young children and older folks - give way to tears. There has been strong condemnation of the color code system, largely because, as a provisional thing, it is inaccurately described until such time as we can more accurately identify the threat. It is not the perfect plan and does pretend to be, so let's use it wisely for what it is intended to be and not the method which will, in time, replace it, if required. It does make us aware of potential dangers, however slight our actual protection might at this moment be. We, at least, have the feeling that something is being done to add to our protective shield. That is a basic fact for which cannot be disregarded. In the worst case an individual might feel that he or she has been deserted and forgotten as others are guided to safety. We must all learn to work for the common good seeking the best guidance for all and not for just for a selected individuals or groups.
It is unfortunate that the need for such a system coincides with the presidential election campaign. In spite of everything which might be done to seek to prevent it, party stalwarts will politicize such aspects of living heartlessly and mindlessly often we fear, to our national disadvantage and shame.
Fear, true enough, can be a fantasy. It can also be a very strong reality and a controlling factor in our lives for much good, if we learn to control , sustain and cherish its power which serves in so many ways to guard our person against evil of all sorts, those thing deemed not to be good for our well being.
A.L.M. August 9, 2004 [c505wds]
