♫ thirteenth song ♫ You won't be scared, you won't be

[sing_my_faith]

Where do we draw the line between bravery in the face of fear, and reckless disregard for our safety? When does it stop being seen as courage, and when does it start becoming lunacy

Comments

[theotokos]

There's a lot of scary things in this place, and even at home. That doesn't mean we can't run away or quit any time soon. The things that hurt us can only make us stronger in return.

[sing_my_faith]

I think what makes the things here possibly scarier is the fact that they're so different. from what we're used to.

I'm not sure which is worse. Knowing the things that are here, or imagining what could be here.

[theotokos]

That is change, isn't it? So the situations are different from what they are from home. We can never hold on to what is comfortable and familiar for long. Change brings death and birth to the new.

You can't always let that cloud your mind. We have to keep going, we cannot ever be afraid of what's going to happen next.

[sing_my_faith]

But it's so much change, all at once. One minute we're home, and the next we're here, surrounded by people we don't know. And how are we to know who to trust, and who to be cautious of? This place forces us to question where we might not normally. I'm not saying it's a bad thing, maybe learning caution is necessary, but...

I don't want to think it's not safe to be friendly. That such a thing might be a weakness.

And yet, when we push forward, heedless of the danger that might or might not be present, we may end up placing ourselves in a situation we cannot escape from.

[knightbalanced]

There is a saying "Fear is healthy". I disagree. Fear is corrosive on a person's spirit and mind. Fear is not what anyone needs - but caution, information, and conscience guide us to make rational decisions when fear would cripple us. The difference between heroism and suicide lies there, though sometimes the lines are difficult to walk.

[sing_my_faith]

I think I've read a similar sentiment in one of the books I borrowed from the library here. It called fear the mind killer.

I suppose I'm just not sure how someone stops being afraid? How they develop a healthy level of caution in the wake of the danger this city makes no mystery of possessing?

And it's nice to meet you. My name is Kyrie.

[knightbalanced]

The mind killer? That's an apt description, in my opinion. It can cripple you, and make you sick.

I think it's the realization that fear doesn't change anything. There might be killers and horrible people here, but they'll hurt you or leave you alone just the same whether you fear them or not. A lack of fear does not mean a presence of brashness or recklessness. Calmness and a clear mind will serve you better than fear, and make it easier for your instincts to guide you when fear might otherwise take over.

It's nice to meet you too, Kyrie. I'm Luke. And I apologize if I sound a little intense on the subject, it's something I've had some experience in, in a way.

[sing_my_faith]

It's a good book, I thought. Overcoming fear was one of the themes of it. Or perhaps merely having control over oneself.

Mmm, you make a good point. In the wake of anything else, a clear head will serve someone better. I know that, and I try and practice it as often as I can. There are times, though, when I'm not sure it's possible. Though I know that's not the case; it merely seems like it at the time.

It's okay. I like hearing other people's opinions on things. It helps to keep me grounded, I think.

Mmm, Nero's mentioned meeting you.

[whofelltoearth]

What scares you, miss Kyrie?

What are you afraid of?

[sing_my_faith]

A great many things, Father. If it were possible, I would say that I fear...uncertainty? Or perhaps it's this uncertainty that leads to possibilities that makes me afraid.

More than anything I'm scared of something happening to you. To any of the people I care about here.

[whofelltoearth]

Uncertainty is very scary, isn't it? We spend so much of our time trying to prepare for the future, and we never really know what the future will contain.

But you shouldn't let it get to you; fear not, nor be afraid!

I will be fine. You will be fine. I can smile right now because I firmly believe this.

Do you know what I'm afraid of, Kyrie?

[sing_my_faith]

And how do you prepare for something so uncertain? I'm not sure you can be prepared for every eventuality. Maybe accepting that as inevitable is key.

What are you afraid of, Father?

same filter;

[sing_my_faith]

I can make some time for you, Esther.

same filter;

[sing_my_faith]

It's never any trouble. When would you like to meet?

[againstgod]

Nobody can draw that line but ourselves.

[sing_my_faith]

I find it hard, sometimes, to find where I should draw that line.

[againstgod]

Life isn't mean to be easy.

[sing_my_faith]

No, I don't suppose it is. This place likes to remind us of that.

It's nice to meet you. I'm Kyrie.