No fear

My six year old handles snakes like a pro.

Granted, he was the third kid to hold this particular snake... but, even knowing it could bite him, he was more than willing to pick up a strange reptile.

There's something good and decent about playing outside, getting dirty, catching lizards and walking around barefoot.

Fear is a killer. I've met people terrified of wasps... burglars... disease... mushrooms... poisonous plants... snakes... and the banking system. (Actually, you SHOULD be scared of the banking system.)

But the other things? Live reasonably, stay out of the city if you can, get used to nature, plant a big garden and don't let fear be your master.

I've watched a drone fly across the sky and felt a twinge of fear. I've heard a child scream and almost had my heart stop. I've put my foot down next to a rattlesnake and had my breath catch in my throat. But fear doesn't control me. There are things worth fearing... and things not worth fearing.

Are you afraid of sinking financially? Ditch your debt, work harder, save, kill your cable, quit eating out, get rid of your house... and find freedom.

Are you afraid of "not getting the girl?" There are more girls in the world. Keep approaching likely prospects (and, by all means, don't let her see any fear in your face); eventually, you'll have success.


Are you afraid of spiders? HA HA HA! You're AFRAID OF SPIDERS??? LAME!

Are you afraid of societal collapse? Good. It's probably coming. Plan ahead as best as you can and entrust the rest to God.

And, by all means, pick up a snake every once in a while. If a six year old can do it... so can you.