Confronting Fear, Finding Liberation
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. It is that we are powerful beyond measure…”
Marianne Williamson
This idea hit me during my time in rehab 2+ years ago. Surrounded by men and women who had failed—failed their families, their children, and themselves—it was easy to hide behind addiction, I came to realize. But that vulnerability opened a door to an important truth: Fear, when faced, becomes a path to liberation.
My Own Deepest Fear and Transformation
Before rehab, I ran from my fear. I numbed myself with alcohol, drugs, and destructive behavior because I feared failure, feared overcoming shame, guilt, anxiety, addiction, and above all, the pain of letting others down. In rehab, I realized that fear was driving my addiction and mental ill-health.
Marianne Williamson’s words deeply resonated with me: “As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same.” This changed my perspective—by facing our fears, we don’t just liberate ourselves, we empower others to do the same, hence the name of my addiction recovery and mental health support platform, ‘Mwangaza Wa Sunday,’ Mwangaza being Swahili for ‘light or enlightenment.’
This transformation is beautifully illustrated in the movie Coach Carter starring Denzel Washington. There’s a powerful moment where a student recites Williamson’s words, embodying the idea that overcoming fear is not only about personal growth but about inspiring others to rise alongside you.
The Serenity Prayer: A Guide for Courage and Change
During my time in rehab, the Serenity Prayer became my compass in recovery:
“God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”
It helped me accept my past—the damage I caused, the relationships I broke. I couldn’t change those things. But I could change my behaviors, my patterns, and my future. This is where courage lies: in embracing the pain, hopelessness, impatience, judgment that comes with growth and knowing it’s a sign you’re on the right path.
The Power of Fear and Pain
Today, my relationship with fear and pain is different. I don’t avoid them; I lean into them. Fear is now a signpost of growth, and pain is part of the process. Each time I feel it, I know I’m moving in the right direction. This mindset shift is what makes fear a powerful ally in recovery.
Brené Brown’s book Daring Greatly and Susan Jeffers’ Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway were essential in helping me understand vulnerability and fear. They showed me that embracing fear isn’t about eliminating it but using it as fuel for transformation. TED Talks like “The Power of Vulnerability” by Brené Brown and “What Fear Can Teach Us” by Karen Thompson Walker further reinforce the idea that fear can be a tool for growth, not a barrier.
Call to Action: Embrace Your Fear
If you’re struggling with addiction or mental health challenges, remember that fear and pain can be powerful tools for change. Don’t run from them—embrace them. The first step toward healing is accepting the fear of the unknown.
Watch this Coach Carter clip for inspiration and remember that as you confront your deepest fears, you also give others the courage to do the same. (Watch the clip here)
