An athletic
department staff member at The University of Texas tells a story about his son
sharing his fears 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 apparently 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 want to
be concerned, not paralyzed. We want to
be cautious and aware and responsive but not frozen in fear; there is a place
for fear. Certainly, we should fear
consequences of our actions and ramifications of our decisions. Our laws and authorities rely to some degree
on fear and that is appropriate. However, when facing change or obstacles in
life, fear should not dictate our lives.
Caution yes, fear no.
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