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I want to talk about what I've learned about being scared. First, because becoming sick has taught me so much about fear and what fear is. Second, because that's the thing: fear is a liar. It'll make you feel so alone even when you're in a crowded room. It pretends that it's helpful and makes sense. And sure, caution and concern can be beneficial, but concern is something you own. Fear has a way of owning you. After listening to fear for too long, I realized it wasn't serving me. Fear had convinced me that things would never get better, that I was inadequate, and that everything would go wrong. Love, on the other hand, was a constant presence that helped me combat fear. Love had the power to expose and dispel the darkness fear tried to conceal. It was only when I chose love over fear that I could truly embrace it. When fear grips me, it tries to convince me to stay in bed, dwell on my shortcomings, and imagine worst-case scenarios. Love offers a different perspective, reminding me that each day is a gift and encouraging me to appreciate the good things in my life. Love inspires me to spread positivity and to share my blessings with others. At times, I feel overwhelmed, and my mood sinks. Eventually, my body becomes paralyzed, and all I can do is sleep. Suddenly, with unfinished projects and unaccomplished achievements, I feel the urge to beat myself up. I feel like my life has turned into a giant to-do list that I cannot seem to keep up with. When I bring all my thoughts to the light and examine them, love speaks a different language than fear. I write down these thoughts, I realize they come from a place of self-doubt, which is driven by fear. Fear tells me that the to-do list is never-ending, but love reframes it as a bucket list, full of things I have the opportunity to do rather than being obligated to do. Love encourages me to start, to take action, and find joy in the process. This shift in mindset makes everything more enjoyable and empowering. I have the privilege to do these things simply because I am alive, and why would I not want to take advantage of that? I am not defined by the negative experiences in my life. Do I not want to discover what can happen if I don't give up? Don't I? Many people yearn for something in their lives but are held back by fear due to their circumstances. Fear can hinder progress, while love can provide hope and the courage to move forward. Currently, I am decluttering my physical space to clear my mind as well. Moving forward with love and hope is the only way to find happiness. Have I become less fearful over time? Honestly, I don't think so. But the flashlight of love is always within reach, waiting for me to turn it on. I have learned the value of surrounding myself with people who can also shine their lights, illuminating the path through darkness. Because when you are part of a loving community, fear doesn't stand a chance. I can't tell you for so long that I believed the lie that no one wants you to ask for help and that you're a burden if you ask for people for help. It's the complete opposite. People have strengths that are other people's weaknesses. So I can't come up with a better invitation to encourage people to share their gifts. In conclusion, fear is a liar, and love is the antidote. By focusing on love and hope, we can overcome our fears and find happiness. We can embrace our strengths and weaknesses, knowing that we don't have to do everything alone. Together, we can create a community of love and support that helps us conquer our fears and live our best lives.