Note: Before I get into this post, I wanted to explain my lack of activity on this corner of the web. Like so many high school seniors before me, I am immersed in stacks of college applications and senior year homework. Of course, these will always be my first priority, but when I have extra time on my hands this semester, I'll try to hop on over!
Ever-constant, ever-changing: fear is an integral component of the human experience. Fear can be frustrating because of its dynamic nature; it doesn't always appear in the form of a demonic poltergeist. For many of us, it comes as an inevitable phone call or the first day of a new job; it's an important presentation deadline or the "submit" button on a college application website.
I've known fear that was light but distracting, and I've known fear so paralyzing that it hindered my ability to speak. Neither type is particularly endearing--but no matter its form, fear can always be overcome.
You see, fear has a very negative connotation in most of our minds. I'm sure that glancing at the previous paragraphs is enough to give you a clear picture of the feelings that fear evokes in me. Part of the dilemma, however, is this distinct way that we characterize fear. Ultimately, we overcome fear by embracing it, and it's rather difficult to embrace something you hold in an unfavorable light.