Fear’s Face-Off

Troubled by troubles? Pause and breathe! For troubles don’t seem to have a mind of their own – they seem to only be interested in knowing whether you’d put up a brave fight or not. If you do, they accept defeat and move away sooner than later.

Here’s a true story – At 39, when this man was diagnosed with acute renal failure, it looked like the world was collapsing on him. He had always been hardworking, with a positive outlook towards life and a healthy lifestyle. This came as a shock. He was initially worried about his wife who was a home-maker and his two little daughters who were 9 and 10. Giving up was not an option. He said to himself, ‘Live I must for my wife and kids. Bring it on!’ Both he and his wife stood firm. Nothing could deter them. They were certain that together they shall see this through. And they did. Nothing was easy. Being in and out of hospitals for the last twenty years was physically, mentally and financially draining. But they continued with a smile on their face. Each time, he had a set-back, he bounced back stronger, proving the doctors wrong. Doctors call it a miracle and the sheer magic of will-power. He continued working like any other normal person for 18 years after the transplant and retired at the age of 58 as the Head of Sales and Marketing in a reputed firm. He was known as a go-getter in his organization and could drive for results that far exceeded their expectations and goals. This couple is an inspiration to many for their strength, determination and ability to laugh during tough times. I am proud to say I am their daughter. I never had to look too far for inspiration or strength.

Likewise, I received some great news today that one of the other brave souls I know, who had been fighting cancer for more than a year, has finally defeated the disease. I salute all those who choose to fight and never give up. They say it is not about the end result, it’s about putting up a brave fight. You will be proud and happy with yourself because you stood firm till the very end. Nothing can kill your spirit unless you give in. And the spirit is what matters. We all know, ‘Fortune favors the brave’.

The only way that a trouble/fear can ever win is if you choose to accept defeat. It does not have a personality of its own that will help it to win. But you do! And you have help in different forms all around you. Seek and you shall find!

In our daily lives, are we ready to face the challenges, our fears, our phobias – fear of future, fear of unknown, fear of failing, fear of pursuing our dream, fear of speaking etc? Can we live fearlessly? Like other emotions, fear is also momentary. Conquer that one moment; take a step towards it and it will start fading. Go ahead – face your fear, and fear will lose its face!