What are you afraid of and why; and how does it affect you?
By: Cameron Sharer
They say fear is a choice but, in reality, even the bravest of all people have fears. Fears can be mental, like worries for others, and physical, like fear of an object or situation such as claustrophobia. Fears can be conquered but unless treated they tend to grow the more they are pondered upon or experienced.
For me, I mentally fear for my friends and family and the relationships we have. I fear my secrets will be let out or something embarrassing will happen to me. I fear for myself and others’ decisions and how I do things. I find that the more I feed these fears, the more likely they are to happen. Most of the time I do not fear for my own safety because I have faith in God, yet, I often fear for other people’s safety.
Physically, I am mainly afraid of only two things: snakes and sharp objects. Snakes are the creatures of the devil and those hideous, satanic creatures should be ridded from the earth. They are disgusting when they move and they are freaky, little demonic beings. I hate them and fear them to the point where I would go out of my way to avoid a place that could possibly have snakes. Normally, I don’t like being around ponds or rivers during summer in fear of snakes. I also fear sharp objects that could pierce my skin and kill me. I am not afraid of the death; only the pain that comes with it therefore I don’t like sharp toothed creatures attacking me or loved ones.
Overall, fears can be overcome, but then again, what is life without fear and weakness?
By Philip Keller
Several weeks ago, some good friends of mine had to travel to Houston, Texas. One of their friends needed help moving out of his apartment because his wife had suddenly died in a car wreck. They, like me, were in their mid-twenties. I am sometimes afraid of this kind of unexpected tragedy, such as a sudden death or a paralyzing accident affecting me or my family. I am afraid I would not know how to handle life if I was suddenly wheelchair bound, or if my wife died in an accident.
I do not dwell on this fear, and usually do not think about it unless it is brought home through an incident such as my friends suddenly having to help their newly widowed friend. However, I think this fear helps to keep my life in perspective. Having reminders of death honestly helps me to appreciate and find more enjoyment in every day that I am alive, view my relationships with my wife, friends and family as a treasure and blessing, and live with more gratitude knowing that God has blessed me with the days He has.
