Not always calm, cool and collected.

Before a physical stress test the other day, I felt stressed. I paced the hallway. Waiting nervously for the test to begin. Anyway, I passed. With plenty of energy and stamina to spare. Despite my unnecessary bout with stress. Still, anxiety takes a toll. On one's psyche. A self-inflicted wound. A waning of one's self-confidence. Many folks, even some of my best friends, are routinely in distress from self-induced anxiety-related matters. Used to think I was immune. Always the calm, cool and collected one. But I'm not. --Jim Broede