As I went through the routine of my typical Thursday the unease of the past few weeks settled into the realization that I am giving fear a larger role in my life than it deserves.

That realization was of course helped along by the relationships I’ve developed and the friendships I’ve been blessed with. It takes as long as it takes but so far, always, eventually, when I’m disturbed, I go back to the realization that I’m afraid of something.

Along with that realization comes the question “What can I do?” In this season of upheaval all over the government I can get along with the things I have to do – pay taxes, anticipate what needs to be done at home (especially things my homeowners association might want an opinion on) and look for inspiration for lunch and dinner. Among other things.

I identified one thing I could do thanks to Congressman Jamie Raskin. He is not my congressman, but I do admire him. He had a link on his website encouraging people to print and mail a Privacy Act request to DOGE. It’s one thing I can do as a citizen to put them on the spot as to whether they are an official government agency or not. What they do with it is out of my hands, but I’ve done my part.

I felt a little joy at the news that a Federal District court had issued an order to reinstate some employees who were fired en masse at some of the agencies. Not all agencies, but it was good news. Fear started to creep back when I anticipated the administration’s response. From what I’ve read so far, it’s not surprising and I’m sure there’s going to be an appeal. That’s out of my hands.

I also felt a little joy at the news that the law firm banned from all federal buildings has representation in court. That’s a good thing.

Choir practice gave me a little distraction as we are starting to look at the music for Holy Week and Easter which is always nice.

Coming home, I thought about Franklin Roosevelt’s speech on fear itself. I had thought it was after Pearl Harbor, but it wasn’t – it was his first inaugural speech in 1933. I found the passage.

“So first of all let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear… is fear itself… nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance.”

Yep. That pretty much sums it up. I’m remembering John Lewis and his instruction to cause good trouble. I’m also remembering Mr. Rogers and his guidance to look for the helpers.

I think I need both.