Mia Concepcion | Staff Writer
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Let’s be ready to live. Our lives truly begin when we quit surrendering ourselves to fear. When we decide that we will no longer make room for its controlling presence to dictate our next move. Fear’s only intention is to torment and steal our peace. The moment we think we’re safe from fear’s divisive plans, it makes an unexpected appearance. Instead of confronting it, we run from it. The question that must now be asked is, what are we running from? What is it that we are so afraid of facing alone? Is it the truth?
The truth is that sometimes fear isn’t so bad. Fear can show us who we really are and what we really want, but are too petrified to acknowledge or have, according to a TED talk titled “Life Beyond Fear” given by Karina Hollekim.
What can be the most terrifying thing is living our truth because of what it might do to others and how it might affect those we love.
Stepping into your truth ultimately reveals two things: people who tolerate your truth, and people who accept and support it, as pointed out by Hollekim. Those who support the truth you live also support your freedom as an individual. You have every right to make decisions and act on feelings that reinforce self-love, even if it means losing friends in the process.
In fact, here’s another idea to mull over: Our fears may disclose how much we are afraid of loving ourselves in the way we wish. We have dreams to chase and decisions to make that sometimes come with a cost, according to Hollekim. That cost is support from our friends—guaranteed support. However, at the end of the day, you have to do what is best for you and be your own biggest supporter. The naysayers will always be there, but strength and certainty in what you are doing are necessary to overcome what they say.
Stop becoming a target for fear. Stop being so afraid to live a liberated life. Chase after your dreams instead of being chased by your fears. You will never get your “happily ever after” if you continue to compromise your truth for the sake of those around you. Real friends won’t force you to compromise who you are for their wellbeing. Their best interests will always be what is most beneficial for you.
Therefore, learn to love yourself enough to live your truth and indulge in a village who is willing to protect you, support you and love you the way you love yourself, while living this truth. Where there is love, there is no torment and there is no fear.
The Hampton Script 