𝑫𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝑩𝒆 𝑨𝒇𝒓𝒂𝒊𝒅 🌌 

There are several potential sources of fear that one may experience throughout his/her lifetime, and one of the most common of these is the fear of other people. Having been an introvert for much of my life, I find that I have lost out on certain opportunities because I was afraid of speaking up. I lacked courage; I lacked confidence. I was afraid of embarrassment, judgment, and condemnation. I was afraid of being perceived as arrogant. Most recently, this fear plagued me during my time in medical school, as I have discussed in this video. Such a fear of people affects how we relate not only to peers but also to parents, friends, institutions, and even strangers. While a certain degree of social fear (associated with respect of the other) is necessary, when in excess it ultimately hinders us more than it helps us. I have learned, over the past year of my life, that there is truly nothing to fear. My fear of other people has been slowly but surely diminishing. I rest in the knowledge that nobody can hurt me; nobody can destroy my spirit; nobody can dim my inner light. This lesson is well-illustrated in Emily Brontë’s poem, “No Coward Soul Is Mine,” which I have recited in this video. I hope that my words imbue you with the courage to rise above all that you fear, whether people, situations, institutions, or other entities. You are too good to be afraid. Have no doubt that you shine brighter than the brightest star in the night sky. 💙