Fear is an effective motivator, yet it takes more than it gives. It may get our kids or our pets to comply, but it compromises trust and intimacy in the relationship.

Fear is also an effective demotivator. It keeps us from stepping into dangerous situations and engaging in risky behavior. However, it also keeps us from living our lives and discovering safe and healthy relationships.

So even though we can use fear to push others forward or to hold ourselves back, we cannot build a life upon it. It will always be found lacking. It cannot form a family or a community, but it can tear one apart.

Perhaps it is wisdom instead that can build lives and sustain communities. Wisdom provides a clear picture of what lies ahead. It provides the rationale for restraint to keep ourselves and those near us safe.

Wisdom builds us up. Fear tears us down.

Wisdom brings us together. Fear tears us apart.

Wisdom invites us to be generous. Fear encourages us to hoard.

Wisdom offers forgiveness. Fear offers resentment.

Wisdom eases our burdens. Fear compounds them.