In a time like ours, where fear takes on an apocalyptic dimension, it is extremely tempting to join a small group that calls non-members useless, dangerous, or evil and offers a unique sense of belonging to those who follow the rules.

But whether through distance or closeness, fear prevents us from forming an intimate community in which we can grow together, everyone in his or her own way. When fear separates or joins us, we can no longer confess to each other our sins, our brokeness, and our wounds. How, then, can we forgive each other and come to reconcilliation? Distance allows us to ignore the other as having no signficance in our lives, and closeness offers us an excuse for never expressing or confessing our feelings of being hurt.

---Henri Nouwen