Helen Keller was certainly right, and she lived by that quote. Security is something that we naturally look for, for without security the business of everyday life becomes rather difficult, if not impossible, if the environment is highly insecure. Life seems quite secure these days, if we look at the statistics about increasing life expectancy, lower mortality rates, more secure food, water and energy supplies, better health care, and much safer financial instruments. Perhaps we have allowed ourselves to become lulled by an illusion of safety, that, if these external variables are somehow taken care of, we can spend the rest of our lives in idyllic ease.

Perish the thought! An ancient Chinese proverb says “In times of peace, a true gentleman keeps his sword by his side at all times.” There is no such thing as security, the way most people think of security. Yes, of course we attempt to make things as secure as we practically can, and that is a function of diligence, discernment and determination. However, we all know that despite the best-laid plans of mice and men, the unexpected does happen. So, besides making things as secure as we possibly can, we need to remain as tough and as robust as possible, too. I keep seeing posts on social media warning about keeping your identity safe, be careful about what you post, keep your children safe online, ad infinitum. Just ensure that whatever you post is rated “G” no matter where you post it, and you will have nothing to worry about! The same can be said about how you live your life. Is your life “G” rated? Is it printable? Now, of course we need to exercise discretion in some areas of life, they are not meant for the public eye, but as long as we are both transparent and congruent in our convictions and actual expressions of those convictions in our lives, what do we have to fear?

I like the Character First! definition of security, “Structuring my life around that which cannot be destroyed or taken away.” What are the things in your life which no one can take away from you? Structure your life around those, and stress, anxiety, worry, fear and their associates will have no place in your life. In their stead, you will experience joyfulness and freedom, and will be able to sing an old campfire song I learned many years ago as a Boy Scout.

Pack up your troubles in your old kit bag and smile…smile…smile…

While you’ve a Lucifer to light your fag,

Smile, boys, that’s the style!

What’s the use of worrying?

It never was worthwhile!

So! Pack up your troubles in your old kit bag and smile…smile…smile…!!