So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
Isaiah 41:10
My family loves to celebrate Independence Day, but our little dog doesn’t. To say she’s afraid of fireworks is putting it mildly.
Sami, a terrier mix, is the picture of tenaciousness. Need a rodent out of the shed? She’s your girl. Just leave the door open and she’ll come out in a few minutes with one in her mouth. But when fireworks fly, our little spitfire turns into a drama queen.
Just so you have the picture: she shakes, cries, slobbers, whines, and generally runs around inconsolably. Plus, once the fireworks start, she absolutely refuses to go outside to potty. I forgot to say we live in a small town where it’s LEGAL for EVERYONE to pop firecrackers on July 4.
Every year, we come up with a game plan to mitigate Sami’s fears. We try to schedule her outside potty breaks between barrages, and take road trips to areas that are fireworks free. No, we haven’t tried a “Thunder Shirt.” Maybe next year.
Last night, we left the house at dusk–just before the “festivities” started– and made our way to a firework-less town where no outdoor displays were planned. Sami enjoyed a walk at a park and we drove around a bit. So far so good.
“Let’s get some ice cream,” I said, trying to not seem anxious. But as we got closer to our favorite little shop, there were flashes ahead in the distance.
Oh NO! The casino up ahead must have gotten a special permit; they were putting on a HUGE display and we were headed straight for it!
Too late. Sami was already shaking like a leaf; time to turn around.
Sometime early on July 5 we made it home in one piece, and everyone began to calm down.
A day later, what happened reads like a second-rate dystopian novel–where every moment comes complete with its own artillery.
Thank God there’s a plan for such emergencies. “I’ve got this,” says the Almighty. “Just drive away from the fireworks.”
Don’t feed the fears.
Davids Daily Dose 
Comments
3 responses to “Don’t Feed the Fears”
Thank you, Aimee, for taking the time to comment on my post. I am glad God used it to help you (through Isaiah 41:10) to feel “something “ again.
It sounds like a cliche, but I am truly sorry to hear about the loss of your Jace. I pray, that in the days, weeks, months, and years ahead you will have many more good days than bad—as you grieve.
I appreciate your thanks, as it makes me think that maybe my little “Don’t Lose Hope in God” blog matters.
You are most welcome. Thank you for stopping by.
David
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Just checking out your page on this endless, sleepless night. I’m not sure what to believe anymore since I feel like my entire brain is clouded over in grief but, seeing Isaiah 41:10 made think of my oldest who very recently, very suddenly passed away. He too was proud of his Christian faith and felt that finding God is what saved him too many times to count. One of his many journals had a few little folded up post-its and other scattered papers falling out of it. Isaiah’s 41:10 was one quote he had written down a few times. I didn’t put much thought into it at the time except noticing it wasn’t one of his “go to” quotes I’m used to seeing throughout his writings. Maybe it’s exhaustion or my mind still trying to find a sense of peace from such an incredibly horrible day but, seeing it on your post caught me off guard…I instantly thought of my Jace. Everyone tells me I’m just not seeing the signs he’s sending me. Honestly, I don’t even know what to believe anymore because I am struggling too hard right now to notice anything at all. This post was the very first and only time since he’s been gone that made me think or feel…something. Something is better than nothing and the only word I could think of how to describe this. I’m not used to or handling my emotions very well but, this was definitely a smile-cry feeling. I may sound super corny but I feel like thanking you…I don’t know why (probably because I’m a hot mess of the ups and downs lol) but, thank you💛
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I love the picture of you. Beautiful encouragement! God bless 💙💙
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