Facing Fears

Recently, I have been thinking a lot about fear. Several times during these past days, I have had to face my own fears or fears of those with whom I work at the Capuchin Soup Kitchen. Last week, I invited a co-worker to join me for a performance at a downtown museum. She responded immediately, ”Oh no, I never go out at night.”  What she didn’t say is that she is afraid to be out in her somewhat dangerous and unlighted neighborhood. Later that week, I was conversing with one of our moms. She related that she had moved in with her daughter for a while since she had no power or heat. However, she is afraid of theft. Everyday she drives to her unoccupied home to prevent robbery.

This past month, I have had to face my own fears as I navigate my vehicle from Livernois to Conner—from my home to my ministry over unplowed, snowy and sometimes, icy streets. Yet in a way, I become even more mindful of my God with me, guiding me, as I try to drive safely and sanely day after day of cold and snow. I want to be appropriately prudent and cautious in this city, in this winter…but please God, don’t let my life be driven by fear.

Author: Sister Nancyann Turner, Adrian Dominican Sister
Capuchin Soup Kitchen Rosa Parks Children Program Manager