31 January 2011

What would you do if you weren't afraid?

A quick question tonight: what would you do if you weren't afraid? Kiss a man? Jump off a cliff (attached to a big rubber band, of course)? Shake hands with a leper? Sleep with the enemy? Run for office? Understand the other's perspective? Walk a mile in another person's shoes?

After I lost my job in 2002, a gentleman asked me this question. His name was Bill. I remember this question to this day. I don't always connect all the dots when I ask myself this question, but it propels me nonetheless. Tomorrow, upon waking, ask yourself the same question. Then make a list. Then complete the list. Then take it to another level. Ask your spouse or significant other. Ask your kids. "Son, what would you do if you weren't afraid?" "Sweetie, what do you think you can accomplish if you set aside fear?" There is always a measurable amount of practical fear. "Whatever you do, don't tug on Superman's cape." Then there is the worried-for-nothing type of fear which we all must overcome. Again, what would you do if you weren't afraid?

That is all.

As always, be thankful for what you have, buy only what you need, and work diligently for peace. Today is my Mama's and Mami's (maternal uncle and aunt) 40th Anniversary. I dedicate this blog entry to them.

3 comments:

Amish Trivedi said...

I'd probably become a poet and go to grad school.

Arp D. Trivedi said...

That's not funny.

Ellen O'Brien said...

Made me smile.