Fear vs. Concern

An athletic department staff member at The University of Texas tells a story about his son sharing a fear with Darrell Royal some years ago.  Apparently the young man told Royal he was afraid of graduating and finding a job in the “real” world.  Royal replied “Never be afraid.  Be concerned.  There is a difference.”  He went on to explain “The difference is that fear is paralyzing.  Concern brings awareness.”

I have always thought that fear was a normal and even important part of life, and in fact I still believe that.   However, Royal’s perspective is good one.  When facing challenges we do not want to be paralyzed, we want to be concerned.  We should be cautious, aware and responsive, but not frozen in fear.  There is a place in life for fear.  Certainly we should fear consequences of our actions and ramifications of our decisions.  Our laws and authorities depend to some degree on fear, and that is appropriate.  But when facing change or obstacles in life fear should not dictate our lives.  Caution yes, fear no.