In today’s world, it’s hard to ignore the rising tide of anxiety. News of terrorism, mass shootings, and other violent acts flood our screens, making it feel as though danger lurks around every corner. This is precisely the atmosphere that those with malicious intent strive to create—one where fear reigns supreme. They thrive on the notion that their actions are effective, that fear is their ally.
We must refuse to grant them such satisfaction. The reality is that, despite the constant barrage of alarming headlines, we are living in one of the safest periods in human history, especially in the United States. It’s crucial to keep this in mind when faced with the sensationalization of violence. While our instincts may be to succumb to fear, we need to stand firm.
Fear and Hate
Fear and hate are intertwined. Most rational individuals recognize this connection. Conversely, love and bravery are essential partners in the fight against extremism. If we genuinely want love to triumph—if we believe it to be more powerful than hate—we must cultivate courage. Fear only serves to empower those who spread hatred.
Guiding Our Children
The challenge arises when we consider our children. Walking through life with courage is one thing; guiding our kids through a frightening world is an entirely different matter. The thought of being in the wrong place at the wrong time weighs heavily on any parent’s mind. But then I wonder: How can I forgive myself for allowing fear to rob my children of joy? We cannot let fear dictate our lives, especially when the actual risks we face are relatively small compared to our daily routines. For instance, the most dangerous activity many parents engage in is driving their kids around, yet we do so without a second thought.
Although I may feel a twinge of unease in crowded spaces, I refuse to let that dictate my actions. The truth is that countless opportunities exist for harm, yet the vast majority of the time, they go unnoticed. During my family’s twelve years living in the suburbs of Chicago, we often rode the Metra commuter train. Sure, my anxious mind would sometimes entertain the idea of potential threats. However, with over 80 million passenger trips completed without incident in 2016 alone, it’s evident that the odds are in our favor. Statistically speaking, you’re more likely to die from choking on food than from a terrorist attack—and much more likely to suffer from your meal than from a refugee who poses a threat.
Embracing Life
While anyone can be a victim of violence at any time, the overwhelming majority of people are inherently good. Most people simply want to live their lives peacefully. We must not let the possibility of rare violence prevent us from fully embracing life, no matter how terrifying the news may be. After all, instilling fear is often the intended goal.
I am determined to let courage prevail, and I will instill this mindset in my children as well. We will take public transportation, visit zoos, enjoy concerts, and attend museums. I will teach them to be wise and prepared, to exercise caution when warranted, but not to be consumed by paranoia. They will learn to reject fear and hatred when they arise, opting instead for love and bravery.
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Conclusion
In summary, while the world may seem intimidating, we must not allow fear to dictate our lives or the lives of our children. Embracing love and courage is the key to overcoming the challenges we face.