I have thought about this question often, as a person who is thought of as a bit "fearless". My background and education lead me to believe that although the fear response is innate, the degree of fear is also based on experience, often from childhood. Many people have been taught in childhood to not "do" things for fear of being injured or punished. This is particularly true for girls/women and people of colour. Consequences of risk taking can be more severe for some than others. The current political situation, much of it steeped in misogyny and racism, has increased the danger to the rights and safety of women and people of colour. History has taught us that some have always been legitimately "afraid". Where we sit on the spectrum of fear can be influenced by our degree of privilege. So I applaud the question and encourage a critical eye when assessing fear as a legitimate response.
Thank you so much for sharing and for bringing this into the conversation. I agree with you and appreciate this idea of the spectrum of fear. Everyone has a different seat and vantage point. 100%.
In every moment the only choice we make is
Love or Fear.
Be still and observe and your choice.
David and Kay Hines
Ever since I read this I've found that I can ground myself in the present moment with that question.
What is this situation asking of me, and how do I respond?
Thank you for sharing, I love that quote :) So true!
I have thought about this question often, as a person who is thought of as a bit "fearless". My background and education lead me to believe that although the fear response is innate, the degree of fear is also based on experience, often from childhood. Many people have been taught in childhood to not "do" things for fear of being injured or punished. This is particularly true for girls/women and people of colour. Consequences of risk taking can be more severe for some than others. The current political situation, much of it steeped in misogyny and racism, has increased the danger to the rights and safety of women and people of colour. History has taught us that some have always been legitimately "afraid". Where we sit on the spectrum of fear can be influenced by our degree of privilege. So I applaud the question and encourage a critical eye when assessing fear as a legitimate response.
Thank you so much for sharing and for bringing this into the conversation. I agree with you and appreciate this idea of the spectrum of fear. Everyone has a different seat and vantage point. 100%.
I always loved getting stopped at the top of the ferris wheel ! no fear! just fun excitement/ that’s where your date steals a kiss! 💋
Aw! I love that image! :)