Discovering the Way to Walk Out of Fear – Part Five

Discovering the Way to Walk Out of Fear – Part Five

 

I was the middle child growing up.

 

Too often, I found myself being overlooked because my shy nature didn’t seem to announce to my parents that I needed attention. Instead, they thought my lack of communication meant all was well. I’m sure they had no idea that I was silently screaming out to be heard but didn’t know how to let them know.

 

There is a saying, “The squeaky wheel gets the grease.” If you aren’t getting what you need, start squeaking. No one knows what you need more than you do. If you need a hug, go give one. If you need a word of encouragement, go strengthen someone else. If you need to be heard, start talking.

 

As a young child, when I heard the saying, “Children should be seen and not heard,” I took it literally and it went deep into my heart. It took years before I realized what a defining moment those words spoken over me had become. Those words should have been, “Children should be seen and listened to very carefully.” It would have made all the difference in the world as to how I viewed myself.

 

Most parents strive very hard to be the best they can be to their children. However, very often they don’t have the necessary knowledge as adults to carry out their intentions. They don’t realize that their lack of knowledge is detrimental to their child or that their own insecurities are hindering them from raising emotionally healthy children.

 

It is so important to have the facts. Parents need to understand the emotional stages of growth that is required for each child to advance into a well-rounded individual. As a young girl, I had no idea I was missing some critical stages – unfortunately neither did my parents.

 

Fear often comes disguised. For some, it’s displayed in a fit of rage. For others, it’s exhibited through depression or cowering under.

 

I wonder how many young people choose the wrong set of actions everyday hoping it will give them some relief from the confusion in their minds. Little do they know, there is an easier way. In order to develop a “No Fear” attitude, they first have to realize how valuable they are. Fear is a lack of confidence in ourselves and our abilities. Yet those who wrestle with it the most have no idea how to rid themselves of it.