I am alarmed.  And outraged.  Because there is an epidemic going on around me, and it makes my stomach churn.  I have been living with this epidemic in my own family for some time, but have come to see the other victims in the last few weeks--an "in your face" come-to-see realization.  Three of my dear friends--without the other ones knowing this--have come to me in confidence and shared their anguish over a severe and debilitating threat to their children.  All three have a son who is being crippled by anxiety and fear.  I'm not talking "there might be monsters in my closet" kind of childhood fear.  I am talking an all out war for their emotional well being, tears and anguish kind of fear.  The kind that breaks a mother's heart and leaves these sweet Mamas exhausted and at the end of their rope.

First, one friend shared their daily struggle that has impacted their entire family as daily routines have been changed to try to ease the situation.  A few days later, another friend sat at my kitchen table and shared nearly the same story.  It was a de ja vu moment.  Then, last week, a friend called me with again, nearly the exact same story.  

Let me tell you my assessment.  It is best summed up with this verse.