Fear is an inner force that drives us all. It can take many forms. Fear is necessary because it serves as an intrinsic fuel for our ability to function. Fear of death is what drives us to take medicine, and fear of failure is what drives us to work hard. Fear kills passions, drives, and gives up our courage.
I can vividly recall my elementary school days. When my class teacher chose me to participate in an interclass speech contest, I prepared and practiced it daily in front of the mirror. I was confident that I could easily speak for hours on the topic. When it was my turn to speak, however, I found myself confused seeing so many students. My hands were still frozen, but I felt warmer. My throat started drying up and my legs began to tremble. I felt like my body was being squeezed and ran off the stage, crying. Fear of people scared me and I thought about what they would say. I remember being scared of my father as a youngster. Some people fear heights and ghosts while others fear losing someone. Fear makes us feel restricted and prevents us from reaching higher. I was always eager to push myself. My teacher in high school always advised me that it was the best way for you to conquer any problem. I believe in perseverance and patience. I committed to myself to take full advantage of all opportunities that presented themselves. High school was a time when I explored my limits and did the best I could. I pushed myself to go beyond my comfort zones and was able to do things that I couldn’t have imagined. As program coordinator for The Maths Club, I designed and implemented the first ever National Competition at college. I was developing practical skills in team building and networking. I felt confident and able to dream big. I was a volunteer teacher working with underprivileged children as part of one college’s extra programs. I learned a lot from working as both a teacher and student in the morning. I learned to be more open and to have the courage and confidence to speak up. After high school I joined several Not-For Profits and was given the opportunity to lead 15-20 people in the same cause. I didn’t know that the child who feared his dad was also doing awareness sessions to people of similar ages. While normal fear is healthy, excessive fear can hinder a person’s growth. Fear is the main reason people are unable to do what they want. Fear is not something that is easy to overcome. To do so, we must have patience and perseverance. When a person steps out of his/her comfort zone, they are unstoppable. My simple goal is to live a happy life and continue learning new things everyday. I’m open to taking on new challenges if they are worthy. Above all, I’ve learned courage and overcome fear.
