Don’t live in fear in 2009

There is usually a great deal of optimism when the U.S. rings in a new year. However, there wasn’t much enthusiasm as we welcomed 2009.

The economy has many people worried. Thousands of Americans lost their jobs and homes in 2008. Thousands more are fearful the same will happen to them in 2009.

America is still at war, and the expansion of troops in Afghanistan has caused even more anxiety. Many of us entered 2009 with loved ones fighting the war in Iraq or Afghanistan. Our greatest hope for 2009 is that our family, relatives and friends will return home safe.

Americans still haven’t recovered from the spike in oil prices earlier in 2008. In fact, most people are expecting prices to start going back up any day now.
The auto industry is in complete shambles. It’s an industry that was once a great source of American pride, as were the banking, real estate and retail industries.

The fact is, virtually every industry has been rocked by the recession. The newspaper industry is certainly no exception. If I didn’t know the meaning of “expense cuts” before 2008, I do now.

The election of a new president provided some optimism. But now the hard reality has set in that it is going to be a tough road for the president-elect.

Living in fear is something new for most Americans, and it’s something that I hope we overcome very soon. It’s no way to live, and it’s not the American way. We have always been a country of hope and dreams. We’ve always been a proud people eager to help our fellow Americans and others throughout the world.
Americans need a source of comfort. I always find that in the Bible.

Maybe we need to read Psalm 91 like many soldiers have done during times of battle:

“You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroys at midday. A thousand may fall at your side, ten thousand at your right hand, but it will not come near you.”

Maybe we need to read Psalm 23:

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

Don’t live in fear in 2009. Rise above it. If you aren’t one of millions living in fear, then help those who are hurting. Lending a helping hand helps those in need to fear less. If you are in need, don’t be too proud to let others help you. Americans have always been able to survive through helping one another. Let’s don’t forget that in 2009.

Ken Tuck is the managing editor of the Dothan Eagle and regional editor of Media General Alabama Newspapers. He can be reached at or 712-7960.