Not the Absence of Fear

Danielle Benedict: Own Topic (2)

    

Many of the modern problems our society faces stem from fear. We fear others who are different than us or we fear what the future of our nation will be. Fear is something that can become more prominent the older we become and the more aware we are of the world around us. I believe fear is a crucial factor to survival however it must be in proper doses. Being at extremes on either side of the continuum is dangerous. Too much fear prevents us from acting. Life is then spent looking around each and every corner in fear of any surprises. Setbacks causes paralysis. Fear can cripple worse than a physical injury. Fear is not a bad thing. Moving to a new city for a job or getting married can be terrifying even though the activities in themselves are good. When a creature does not experience fear, it becomes brash and reckless. This makes me think of animals with rabies, they are out of their minds and do not feel fear so they keep attacking other creatures until a stronger one kills it. Franklin D. Roosevelt said “courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the assessment that something else is more important than fear.” Each situation we encounter calls for an assessment; will we fear what is facing us? Both fight and flight are natural responses that no one should be ashamed of but we should consider our options before acting out either one. We should be the ones determining our course of action not just mere physical stimulus.