Look Fear in the Face
“Have you ever looked fear in the face and said I just don’t care?”—Pink’s Glitter in the Air lyrics
When you first hear the word “fear”, what comes to mind? An impending attack? Feeling paralyzed? Many of us struggle with the fear of the unknown or fear of something that isn’t even real. Why is that? Fear causes irrational behavior and sometimes, harmful outcomes.
Facing fears is an important part of life. Without this courage, how can we continue to grow with God, in creativity, through life? Start by writing it down. Write down all the inner fears you hold on to, too afraid to speak them out. Spill out all the jagged lies that have wreaked havoc in your soul over the years, no matter how insignificant they seem. None of them are—I assure you. These trappings will hold you back from living the life that is meant for you. (It is best to handwrite them down first because you will be more honest.)
When I looked up “fear” online, here were a few meanings offered:
1. a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined; the feeling or condition of being afraid
2. concern or anxiety; solicitude
3. something that causes feelings of dread or apprehension
As you can see, fear takes many forms. It can make us feel crazy, paralyzed, worthless, and pointless, like we will never make it. Most of the fear I have experienced in my life has been imagined and propelled by lies—lies that I accepted as truth. (If you want to read more about my story, check out this article from The Good Women Project: https://www.goodwomenproject.com/daily-life/stress-lies-and-truth).
Wherever you are in life right now, it is always a good time to assess what is on your mind and whether anything is holding you back from your life purpose. I constantly remind myself that when I feel fear it is a great opportunity to take some sort of action…and to grow. As an artist, growth has become vital to me—just like breathing. Sometimes, I feel like I can’t even breathe. Then I take a step back, draw in fresh air and stare at the sky. I’ve learned the tricks that help me get past those trying moments. What are yours?
Today, I leave you with a verse that has helped me through fearful days and nights:
The LORD is my light and my salvation– whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life– of whom shall I be afraid?—Psalm 27:1
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I love this, Crystal!
“As an artist, growth has become vital to me—just like breathing.” So much to love about this, Crystal Lou, but I especially loved this line. In answer to your question, journaling helps me move past stuff a lot. Also praying or calling a friend who will listen. Love you!
Have you ever looked fear in the face and said I just don’t care? What a way to start the blog! Thank you for talking about fear. It’s definitely something I try to ignore because it seems so irrational. But the truth is that if I keep ignoring it, it will continue to cripple me. Thanks for writing Crystal!!