June 17th, 2008 | by O.A. Wisen
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Knowing what is feared is half the battle

In the journey of continuous self-improvement, this is a good question that everyone should ask themselves periodically. It should be one of many personal checks and balance. I caveat this by saying that the question, “Are you fearless?”, is really a conceptual metaphor, as no one can be completely fearless in the literal sense. Ask yourself and not others because this question posed to another may be immediately viewed as confrontational. You may get a response like, “Of course!” or “What do you mean am I fearless?” or “Dude, what are you talking about?” or “Why are you asking me! Are you?” Without delving into a proper explanation of the intent and context of the question, it will most certainly be misunderstood. Very few people will admit that they are not fearless if they were, or respond inaccurately and inappropriately. Never mind that it just isn’t socially and egotistically acceptable to admit this. Most humans like to believe that they are fearless. That may be good, that may be bad; that may be a lie, that may be the truth – only time will tell.

I will attempt to bring out the meaning behind this figurative question. As said earlier, this is a good yardstick for gauging an aspect personal development, to see if as individuals we have what it takes to be the kind of person we think we ought to be in relation to fear. Fear is poison; it undermines, drains, and devalues your character. Hence the ubiquitous question: Are you fearless?

Would you ever get up from a comfortable position to stand up against an issue raised by someone who not only humiliates you and others, but challenges you in front of everyone in an attempt to further belittle you? Would you do this knowing that as you stand to defend your principles you have opened yourself further to potential ridicule? Are you fearless?

Would you ever stand up alone in a company of friends and denounce their behavior towards another you don’t even know and isn’t considered a friend – because all that matters right there and then, all your consciousness incessantly drums at you, is the realization of the distinction between right and wrong? Are you fearless?

Could you have knowingly or uncontrollably done or supported outrageous or outlandish behavior and suddenly begin to question yourself daily because you realize your grievous error and want to change, feeling overwhelmed, realizing that you face the proverbial uphill battle of change? A situation where you feel like only divine providence, an act of God, can make you permanently turn around in the opposite direction? Would you accept the challenge realizing it’s a difficult task and a lot harder than wallowing in old ways? Are you fearless?

Would you take a step of faith into the unknown and try something with evident prospects of potential, while knowing that the possibility of failure is ever-present, yet the likelihood of success is not a fleeting dream but a tangible and attainable objective if only you persevere? Are you fearless?

Would you choose the supposedly uncertain route of honesty, openness and integrity when dealing with people you are, or want to be devoted and obligated to, or even take it a step further to those you don’t owe anything, understanding that there may be severe and potentially life changing repercussions, but still do it anyways because it’s simply the right thing to do? Are you fearless?

Would you be willing to forgive and let things go, especially knowing that forgiveness is the right and gracious thing to do? Would you put away your anger, ego and pain, and not let them stand in the way, because the act of forgiveness makes you a bigger person? Are you fearless?

Would take a risk to help out a friend, family member, or the random Joe from harm’s way, knowing in the back of your mind that you could get hurt, or meet the ultimate fate? Knowing that right there and then you are the only person around that has the ability to help (or save) them and no one else? Are you fearless?

These questions are not for the faint of heart. If you can answer yes to one of these or others like these, then you can and as a result are fearless. Your answer makes you are a minority against an overwhelming majority, and you should nurture and be grateful for your character. You have learned and achieved what others may never be able to do. You have learned to stand up for what is right, noble, and just, against all odds. You know to defend the helpless with no hidden agenda for financial gain, control, power, or a boost of your opinion of yourself. You have discerned that this, like numerous other instances, would be a good time to be a minority and not part of the majority. Be fearless.

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