As we enter the year of 2008 I was reading the commentary on Mark, I was struck by how all of us are holding on to baggage which is hurtful to us both spiritually and mentally.  Some of us are caught up in the bitterness of childhood experiences that can not be changed and in some cases, especially those of families, folks did the best they could at that time.  Most of us in one way or another are anywhere from hindered to immobilized by our fears.  It may be something as trivial as I’ll get to the cahier and have to put something back because I don’t have enough money or as immobilizing as I’m afraid to leave my home and I need someone with me.  There are the victims of others fears inhibited by their love for another as well as their knowledge others are counting on them as well.  There are no easy answers.  As a mental health clinician I might answer very differently than a victim.  However, we have an obligation to try and cast off those chains which keep us from being the Christians that we are called to be.  Jesus never asked perfection of any of us – that was reserved for him.  But he asked that we step out of the boat and try even if we sink.  This is the time to reach out to others to seek there strength and knowledge.  We are just beginning that walk from the birth of an infant to his crucifixion.  We need to be ready rise again with our Lord on Easter.