Lately, it seems like everything that could go wrong is going wrong in this world. It seems as though imminent danger is all around us, given the recent ISIS attacks that are happening around the world. The most recent attack in Paris has shaken us all to the core. Though it happened miles away, it hit us at home. Many Americans, young and old, lost their lives in a vicious attack in the last place we would have ever thought there would be. As France declares war on ISIS, countries around the world, including the U.S., are preparing for the worst. Security is becoming tighter, borders are shutting down, and fear is everywhere.
This past Thursday, President Obama addressed the issue of allowing Syrian refugees sanctuary here in the States: "We do not serve well when, in response to a terrorist attack, we descend into fear and panic." Now, I am not an Obama supporter. I never have been, and I doubt I ever will be. But in this instance, as much as it pains me, I do agree with our Commander in Chief. Innocent lives are being lost to senseless violence every day. These people live in fear and terror in ways we will never be able to comprehend. As a country that, throughout history, has chosen to be an ally to countries in need, to now turn our backs because of fear is disheartening.
Don't get me wrong – I am just as afraid of this growing threat as anyone. I won't be going Black Friday shopping this year because of the threat of bombings throughout the country. I am scared to even dream of traveling because something could happen at any moment. But what I am not afraid of is being a friend to these refugees. I have personally met two Syrian refugees currently residing in Atlanta. I have heard their stories -- the fear and anguish these men and their families have been through. And they are so grateful that we have opened our arms and have given them a chance to fall asleep at night knowing their families are safe.
Fear is a powerful tool. It is how ISIS is keeping its hold on the world. And I'll admit, they're doing a hell of a job. But I refuse to let fear change who I am as a person. I refuse to let fear dictate my better judgement. I refuse to let fear make me become just as bad as the enemy.
I am not so ignorant to say that precautions don't need to be taken. We need to be careful. We need to be alert. But we don't need to be a closed door to those who desperately need our help. Try to put yourself in their shoes. How would you feel if you and your family had a door to safety and new beginnings slammed in your face because they let fear take over their better judgement?
We need to be the change. We have to be the ones to stand up against the real enemy: fear. I don't know what your religious preference is, or if you even have one. But I believe in the Almighty God. I have faith that my God will keep me and my family safe. I have faith that no matter what happens, good or bad, I will never be alone. And I will not be one to let these Syrians refugees believe that they are alone. Because they aren't.
