Nothing to FEAR but FEAR itself. by Maribeth Jordan

As many inspirational videos, movies, quotes and sayings there are, it still remains hard for us to "get it". Why? Because our Ego gets in front of us and says NO, STOP. Do you know what I think an Ego is... FEAR.

Fear masks itself into many forms, some to name a few are; Anger, Guilt, Rage/Violence, Self-Consciousness, Arrogance, Selfishness and Greed. Some people allow fear (aka ego) to dominate their lives. It is easy to see these people when the above mentioned emotions are not present - these are the people who can't take direction, get defensive when constructively criticized and are incapable of keeping promises.. oh, and my personal favorite (to despise) LACK of respect for those around you. Why the lack of respect? Because fear consumes an individual to think soley on oneself and the situation it currently is attacking you with. Your ego in essence is your own personal prison and it's cell mate is fear.

Here are the right keys to overcoming "yourself" (ego, pride). Patients, Generosity and Love. Yes.. Patients to listen without interrupting. Generosity to give - and this entails many things, i.e; time, money, help, kindness and understanding. Finally, to LOVE.

You cannot Love outwardly unless you love inwardly first. To Love yourself means to accept yourself for who you are presently. Forgive and seek forgiveness. Without forgiveness love cannot breathe. When love is present all the right keys will be there to eradicate fear.

Fear is Fear itself - just that... a coward. One way to make a coward run is to stand up to it. Do not allow it to consume your mind. Face the GIANT and prove it wrong by doing/being the very thing it says you cannot. Once you have achieved the very thing it held you down with it doesn't come around for a visit very often.

But what if your ok and someone else is consumed with ego/fear and it's affecting your life? Remember the keys - lead by example. If this is not working then bring forth your concern. Keep going further by adding another person into the mix for guidance (this person should be respectable, a role model for all the keys). Keep going with another individual - remember, a triple braided cord is not easily broken. Why do you think interventions are so successful? Other people can be your "mirror" simply by voicing their concern. Don't be afraid to speak up! Your voice allows for change, that's why we have one.

Lastly, cowardly people need love. The next time your ridiculed, laughed at or have a door slammed in your face don't fight fire with fire - it only fuels it. Use water (love) and put the fire out. Know inside this person is inflicted with fear, ego and possibly pain. Pray for that person and thank GOD you have graduated this course.