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How to Overcome Fear
From a cancer survivor
I was 36 years old and terrified. I’d just been told by my doctor that I had 6 months to live.
Yet, over the next few months I overcame my fear and learned to find peace in the midst of pain. The lessons I learned then have served me well in the 16 years since.
I wanted to share what helped me given the anxiety and fear that I’ve seen during this uncertain time.
Why would my experience help you?
Because I’m human. We share emotions and can empathize with each other despite our differences. Cancer forced me to face my deepest fears and that experience shaped me. I became more resilient and joyful. In fact, that’s the title of the art class I teach for those facing tough times — Resilience and Joy.
I have had people call me courageous because I faced my cancer with optimism. I believe my faith is what gave me that gift. But what if you are not a person of faith?
Then take what is useful to you and leave the rest. We don’t need to share a faith tradition in order to help each other. Atheist friends have helped me and hopefully I’ve also helped them.
So, if you are struggling with fear, what should you do?
