Listen!

It has been suggested that the association of stress is evil in every way. For example, consider the word, itself. Take a moment and say it aloud. STRESS.

Listen to yourself as you pronounce it. Say it again--slowly and distinctively--STRESS.

You hear it? That "Ssssss"? Did you hear yourself hiss? That's right, you hissed. Now is that evil or what?

You do remember who's (or what's) notorious for hissing, don't you? Exactly! So you already know that anytime you hear a hissing sound, evil is lurking somewhere near.

Of course, the "hissing" is only a prelude to what can actually happen. Almost identical to that of the cunning belly-crawler, the sound itself doesn't cause any damage. Perhaps, alarm--but no real harm. With both evils, stress and the snake, the hissing we hear is simply a warning.

The dreadful problems in either case begins at the point of contact. Whenever we allow cruel forces to latch on to us, whether seen or unseen, we suffer the consequences.

People everywhere know the danger of poisonous snakes. But how many are equally aware of the hazards of stress? For certain, people tramping through possible snake areas take precautions to protect themselves. So why wouldn't people stumbling around in stressful environments seek measures to protect themselves?

The Bible says, "Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free." Let's seek some truth concerning our health and well-being.

"Ssssss."

Peace I leave with you . . .