The Boogey-Man

While growing up, I would get riled up over some monster or other that I thought was in my closet or on my floor, and I imagine myself now as an adult, comforting that inner child that there's nothing to be afraid of.  Just because I can't see it, doesn't mean it's not safe.  It is safe, well... EXCEPT on the rare occasion that it's not safe.

Just how often is it not safe to be in our own bedrooms as a child growing up?  This is a real possibility meriting real concern, but do we want them to focus on that?  No.  As adults, we want to comfort them no matter what COULD happen, because

We needn't focus on the what-ifs!!!

The potential for harm is there, no matter how old we get, but God is up there, acting like a loving adult -a loving Father- willing us to rest from our worries, to bring our troubles to Him.  To be at peace and believe Him when he says it's ok.  He's not promising that we won't have trouble, or at least if He is, it's more of a promise that when trouble comes, He will be there to help us through it.

I was helping my own daughter with her night-worries, and I remembered how real it all was for me growing up.  I knew she needed more than just words.  She needed my hugs, she needed my continued presence.

I've needed hugs and the presence of a greater power.  I've been concerned about my own adult version of the boogie-man, as I believe many adults can point to something as their real and potential looming trial.  Some of us are even in the midst of battling demons and even though we cannot see them, they are there.  But does our Father want us to be afraid?  Does He not come to us to strengthen us and lift us up, just as we would for our own tender little children?

My favorite quote recently was from Elder F. Enzio Busche of the Seventy:
It is the fear of the pain of sacrifice that makes you hesitate to do it.

This is what the boogie man is all about.  It frightens us and brings to our attention all of the what-ifs until we are completely and utterly immobile.  But God is Bigger than that.  We can trust in Him.  He loves us so much more than we could possibly love and care for even our own sweet little ones.  If we hesitate, let it only be long enough to pray for more strength, or for clear guidance, but not long enough to doubt ourselves, or the faith that God has in us.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Jd4qnxj7D0