The Two Paths of Fear · The HuRU Crew

The Two Paths of Fear

In the time of the Lakota people, around the campfire beneath the endless sky, a respected Wicasa Wakan (holy man) gathered the young warriors and told them a story of the spirit within. “Inside each of us,” he said, “live two powerful spirits, like two mighty buffalo. One spirit is fear, made of shadows and hesitation, urging us to run away like a frightened deer. The other spirit is courage, strong and steady, like the great bear who stands to protect the people.”

A young warrior asked, “Grandfather, how do I honor the spirit that will help me in life?” The elder smiled warmly, “When fear walks beside you, you have two ways to walk your path. You can forget everything and run, like the deer fleeing from the thunderstorm, seeking safety in the shelter of the hills. Or you can face everything and rise, like the bear rising from its den after the long winter, ready to face the challenges of the new day.”

The Great Spirit gave us these choices—fear and courage—for a reason. Fear teaches us when to be cautious, to protect ourselves, but it is courage that helps us grow, find wisdom, and honor our ancestors. Life calls us to decide which spirit we feed, for the path we walk shapes our future and the legacy we leave.

The Lakota Wicasa Wakan continued, “In the words of modern teachers: FEAR means either forget everything and run, or face everything And rise. The power is in your hands. As the sun rises after the longest night, so can you rise, strong and brave.

Questions

When was the last time fear stopped me from doing something important?

What would happen if I chose to face my fears instead of running?

How can I remind myself that fear is a sign to be courageous, not to retreat?

What strengths have I discovered when I faced a fear before?

Exercises to practice facing fear

Small Step Challenge:

Identify one small fear or uncomfortable situation each day. Instead of avoiding it, take one manageable step toward facing it. Reflect on how it feels before and after.

Fear Journal:

Write down your fears and label them either "flight" or "rise."" For each fear, list potential lessons or growth opportunities if you choose to face it.

Visualize rising:

Spend five minutes visualizing yourself successfully confronting a fear. Imagine the strength, calm, and confidence you feel afterward. Use this mental rehearsal before facing real fears.

Remember, courage is not the absence of fear but the willingness to act in spite of it. Choosing to face everything and rise opens the door to freedom, resilience, and growth.

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