Oct. 6, 2023
We’re living in a world that often resembles a horror movie, where news of alarming events like terrorist attacks and mass shootings flood our screens. It feels like danger lurks around every corner, making it hard to shake off that uneasy vibe.
And that’s precisely what those who spread fear want us to think. They thrive on our anxiety; it’s like fuel for their fire. If we let them believe they’re winning, they gain more power. We can’t allow that.
Understanding the Reality
Here’s the reality: things aren’t as dire as they may appear. Despite the barrage of sensational news, we are, statistically speaking, in one of the safest periods in history, particularly here in the U.S. We need to remind ourselves of this, especially when faced with the media’s tendency to dramatize violence. Our feelings of fear can’t dictate our actions.
The Power of Love and Bravery
Fear and hatred are partners in crime. Most rational people understand this. But let’s flip the script: love and bravery go hand-in-hand in the fight against extremism. If we genuinely want love to triumph, we need to embrace courage. Allowing fear to dictate our lives only bolsters those who harbor hatred.
Guiding Our Children
Now, let’s talk about our little ones. It’s much easier to navigate the world bravely on our own than to guide our children through it. The “what-ifs” loom large—what if we find ourselves in the wrong place at the wrong time? How could we ever forgive ourselves if something tragic were to happen to them?
I challenge myself with a different question: How could I forgive myself for denying my kids the joy of life due to fear? That’s no way to live, especially when the risks we face are minor compared to the daily activities we engage in. For example, driving our kids around is statistically much more dangerous than most of the scenarios our imaginations conjure.
Facing Our Fears
Sure, I feel a twinge of anxiety in crowded areas, but I refuse to let that fear dictate my choices. The truth is, while there are countless opportunities for harm, the overwhelming majority of people are good. Our family spent years commuting into the city, and sure, my mind would wander to all the ways a disaster could unfold. However, we made over 80 million trips without incident. Those odds are in our favor. Statistically, you’re more likely to choke on your food than to be a victim of a terrorist attack.
The reality is that we could all be victims of violence at any moment, but focusing on that fear isn’t productive. The majority of people want to coexist peacefully. We cannot let the small chance of something terrible happening stop us from living our lives—especially since fear is often the goal of those horrific events.
Instilling Courage in the Next Generation
I’m determined not to let fear dictate our lives, and I will instill that mindset in my children. We’ll continue to use public transportation, visit zoos, attend concerts, and participate in community events. I’ll teach them to be smart and cautious, but not to be paralyzed by fear and “what-ifs.”
I want them to recognize and reject fear and hatred when they appear and to choose love and bravery time and time again. If you’re interested in what it takes to build a family, check out this resource for more insights. And if you’re curious about the essentials for at-home insemination, you can learn more at this link.
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Conclusion
In summary, while the world can be intimidating, letting fear take control isn’t an option. Embracing love and courage is the way forward, not only for ourselves but for future generations.