Face Your Fear—How Resilience is Built Through Challenges

Fear is a natural part of life. It shows up whenever we’re stepping into something new, something uncomfortable. And while it’s tempting to avoid it, the truth is, fear is often the first sign that growth is just around the corner.

My Grandpa John understood this better than anyone. He faced challenges most of us can only imagine. As a WWII veteran, he was awarded the Bronze Star for saving a life while wounded and under fire from a German machine gun. He didn’t hesitate. He acted, risking his own life to save another.

This act of bravery was recounted during his memorial at Arlington National Cemetery, where he was buried with honors. Hearing his story told that day reminded me of the incredible strength and courage it takes to act in the face of fear. Grandpa John’s life wasn’t defined by his fear—it was defined by his purpose.

But what drove Grandpa John wasn’t a lack of fear—it was a greater fear. He feared living a life without meaning and purpose more than he feared the risks of taking action. He once told me, “It’s not about living a long life; it’s about living a strong life.” For him, the thought of not fully embracing life was far scarier than any challenge he faced.

I feel the same way. My greatest fear isn’t failing or falling short—it’s not living a strong life. A life filled with purpose, meaning, and usefulness. That fear has followed me through every chapter of my life, and now, as I recover from two hip replacements and prepare to turn 64 this May, it’s clearer than ever.

Recovery has been one of the most humbling experiences of my life. The physical pain, the frustration of rebuilding strength, the slow process of regaining mobility—it’s all pushed me to my limits. But the thought of not living a life of purpose? That’s the real fear that drives me forward. It’s what gets me out of bed, stretching, walking, and taking one more step toward my goals.

In “Timeless Wisdom”, one elder says, “The hardest moments in life are the ones that make you. Lean into them.” This isn’t just a piece of advice; it’s a lifeline. Resilience is like a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets.

For me, the mats have always been a place where resilience comes to life. Every time I’ve stepped onto them—whether it’s to learn a new technique, spar with someone more skilled, or simply show up after surgery—I’ve had to face fear. Fear of failure. Fear of not being good enough. Fear of falling short. But fear doesn’t win. Resilience does.

Martial arts has taught me that challenges don’t define you—how you respond to them does. That same lesson appears in “Lessons on Legacy”, where one elder shared, “Your story isn’t written by the challenges you face; it’s written by how you respond to them.”

Grandpa John’s story reminds me of that truth. At 95, he could’ve said, “I’m too old” or “It’s too late.” But he didn’t. He embraced the challenge, embraced the fear, and in doing so, he showed me—and everyone who knew him—what true resilience looks like.

So, let me ask you: What fear is holding you back? Maybe it’s trying something new, like joining a class or starting a fitness routine. Maybe it’s a difficult conversation you’ve been avoiding. Or maybe it’s the fear of failing, of not being good enough. Whatever it is, don’t wait for the fear to disappear. Move forward with it.

In January 2025, I’ll be returning to the mats as both a teacher and a student. I’ll be stepping back into the space where resilience is built, not because it’s easy, but because it’s worth it. Fear doesn’t have to stop you. It can be the very thing that pushes you toward growth.

Resilience is built one step, one moment, one choice at a time. Face your fear. Take that step. And watch how strong you can become.

Where to Explore in the Resources:

1. “Timeless Wisdom”:
   • Focus on advice about embracing life’s hardest moments and letting them shape you.
2. “Lessons on Legacy”:
   • Emphasize the perspective that challenges don’t define you—your response to them does.