Introduction
Being afraid is a natural – it helps protect us from danger, but it can also hold us back when it’s irrational or excessive. Learning to face and manage fear can empower us to take on challenges and explore new opportunities.
Help Deeksha at School
In school, Deeksha was terrified of speaking in front of her class. Whenever she had to give a presentation, she would freeze and forget her words.
One day, her teacher noticed and said,
“Deeksha, it’s okay to feel afraid. Why not try practicing in front of a mirror or with friends?”
Deeksha decided to take her teacher’s advice. She practiced every day, and gradually, she became more comfortable. When her presentation day arrived, she felt nervous but managed to share her ideas confidently. Afterward, her classmates clapped, and Deeksha realized that facing her fear made her stronger.
Help Dalpat at Home
At home, Dalpat was afraid of the dark and often refused to sleep without a light on. His parents understood but also wanted him to be brave.
One night, they sat with him and said,
“Dalpat, everyone feels afraid sometimes. Let’s try facing it together. How about we read a fun story in the dark with just a flashlight?”
Dalpat agreed, and as they read, he started to feel more relaxed. Over time, he learned that the dark wasn’t as scary as he thought. With support from his family, he began to sleep without the light on, realizing he could overcome his fears.
Reference from Panchatantra Stories
In the Panchatantra, there’s a tale of a rabbit who feared the lion that roamed their forest. Instead of hiding, the rabbit gathered courage and outsmarted the lion by luring it to a well, where the lion fell in. The story teaches that often, fear can be overcome with cleverness and bravery.
Thirukural Couplets
“Fearlessness is the path to courage, while courage is the door to triumph.”
— Thirukural 294
- Identify Your Fears: Understand what makes you afraid and why; recognizing the source can help you confront it.
- Take Small Steps: Start facing your fears gradually, taking one small step at a time until you feel more comfortable.
- Talk About It: Share your fears with friends or family; sometimes, just talking about them can lessen their power
Why did the skeleton go to the party alone?
Because he had no body to fear! 🎃😂
