Chapter 3 - “The Only Thing We Have To Fear Is Fear Itself”

A BOOK IN A BLOG PROJECT

Chapter 3 - "The Only Thing We Have To Fear Is Fear Itself"

"So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is fear itself.” —Franklin Roosevelt, Inaugural Address, March 4, 1933

During the height of the Great Depression, President Roosevelt delivered these famous words to lift a nation's spirits. Facing massive economic collapse, he gave the American people a new awareness: this "nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror" could paralyze the very efforts needed to overcome hardship. His words called for courage and action, and we can apply that same wisdom to our everyday lives.

Before I truly understood the profound power of awareness, I was also a victim of fear. Back then, I tried to make sense of it all. Where did this fear come from? Was it my upbringing? A lack of inspiring teachers? These questions consumed me for years. It was a long journey, and to give you a sense of the timeline, I’ll tell you I’m in my mid-50s today (in 2025).

I’ve come to realize that my life is mine alone. No one else has walked my path, just as I haven't walked theirs. We were all born at different times and places, with our own roadmaps. This isn't a religious concept; it is something I have learned through spirituality and science. While the purpose of organized religion still mystifies me, my own curiosity, which began in my childhood, has always driven me to understand the world and people better. A wise Buddhist professor once told me I had a "monkey brain" due to my constant curiosity and hunger for new information, especially on topics like meditation, which I am still learning today.

Then, one day, it finally dawned on me. Instead of worrying about what might go wrong, I should focus on what's right. Why should I worry about my boss's mood? I'll do my best at work and stop fretting about what others think of me. This small revelation was the spark of courage I needed. I became aware of my own fears and doubts, and it felt like my soul was awakened.

This newfound awareness was the result of many sleepless nights spent overthinking. The turning point arrived when I discovered Ronda Byrne's book, The Secret.

About The Secret
The Secret was released as a film in March 2006, and later that same year as a book. The book was influenced by Wallace Wattles' 1910 book, The Science of Getting Rich, which Byrne received from her daughter in 2004 during a personal crisis. New York Times bestselling authors Janet Bray Attwood and Chris Attwood arranged 36 of the 52 interviews for the film, many of which are referenced in the book. The book also served as the basis for the 2020 film, The Secret: Dare to Dream. (*Source: Wikipedia)

That moment changed my world for the better. My sleep improved, and the fear that once fueled my doubts was mostly gone. Mentally, I was liberated—free and fearless. I believe that anyone can overcome fear and doubt, just as I did. We all just need a moment in time, a chance for the universe to send us a sign, an angel to show us the way.

I hope that by sharing my journey, this chapter can be that sign for you.

Practical tools for overcoming fear

1. Practice gratitude. Make it a daily habit to ask yourself, “What should I be grateful for today?”
2. Harness positive thinking. Why create fear around an incident that hasn't happened yet, or may never happen?
3. Address your job and relationships. Instead of assuming your boss is "fierce," reflect on how you can improve your work. Ask yourself if you genuinely like your job or if you're only working to pay bills.
4. Stop comparing your life to others'. True happiness isn't found in a bigger house, a newer car, or branded fashion. A luxury watch won't bring you lasting joy.
5. Use a daily mantra. Affirm yourself with a mantra like, “I am capable, and I am grateful for everything I am receiving in life that makes me happy.”
6. Practice manifestation techniques. The power of your imagination is a key to unlocking your happiness.

Note: This chapter was developed and edited with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The contents of this chapter were designed as a basic guide. Individuals who suffer from mental health issues, or are overly stressed from work and life's challenges are advised to seek professional medical help.

Patrick Ho is using his skills from past occupations to pass on to present and future generations. His journey of Spirituality is a daily learning experience of Awareness, Mindfulness, Compassion, Loving Kindness and Meditation.