The year after I arrived in Germany in 1983, a man classified as a personal prisoner of Hitler, Martin Niemöller - Lutheran pastor - died in Wiesbaden. This interesting man, known for his often controversial remarks, as well as his commitment to pacifism, was equally known for his bravery.

What interests me today is a remark made by Max Lucado:

Martin Niemöller was a German pastor who took a heroic stand against Adolf Hitler. When he first met the dictator in 1933, Niemöller stood at the back of the room and listened. Later, when his wife asked him what he'd learned, he said, "I discovered that Herr Hitler is a terribly frightened man." Fear releases the tyrant within.

Max Lucado, Fearless: Imagine your Life Without Fear, pg. 9

Interesting. How much anger is really a cloak for fear? Fear of change. Fearing loss of control. Fearing damaged expectations. Fearing loss.

Good point, Max. Good observation, Martin.