We are facing a crisis of fear in the world, playing out in many ways on many platforms.  And trying to keep fear at bay in the current environment is challenging as we are subjected on a daily basis to horrific reports of violence, destruction and hatred along with an accompanying onslaught of images, sounds and threats—and outright encouragement-- of anger and hostility. All this is in part designed to create and sustain fear in order to further the assorted goals of the fear mongers.  Exaggeration and distraction are important tactics used by those who wish to advance their own agendas, and … [Read more...]