Human beings are unique in their ability to dwell on the past, savor the present, and yearn for the
future. Memories, both positive and negative, shape their thoughts, emotions, and actions. They often
cling to past experiences, creating a comfort zone defined by familiar paradigms. These memories,
however, are factual but their interpretations are subjective. The meaning they attach to these
experiences can become a crutch or a roadblock.
Dreams, on the other hand, propel human beings forward. They answer the “why” questions, fueling
their aspirations. However, dreams alone are powerless without action. Turning dreams into reality
requires facing the “what” and “when” – taking concrete steps in the present.
Here’s where the dance between fear and faith begins:
● Fear’s Grip: Memories, often laced with negativity, feed peoples’ fears. The subjective meaning
they attach to past events can become an excuse for inaction. Fear triggers a fight-or-flight
response, with flight often the seemingly safer option.
● Faith’s Spark: Faith, rooted in dreams and aspirations, may seem flimsy compared to fear’s
grounding in experience. Yet, faith is the catalyst for progress. It compels some individuals to push
past their anxieties and chase their goals.
The Power of Now
While fear and faith battle for dominance, most people neglect the present moment. Living in the
present allows for objective evaluation. One should recognize the uniqueness of each situation and shed
the baggage of past interpretations. For the present also offers a clear view of what dreams are truly
attainable, based on current realities.
Finding Balance
Integration of past, present, and future is key to self-realization. This means being fully present, mind,
body, and soul, free from biases. It’s about recognizing memories as snapshots, open to interpretation.
Similarly, dreams should be questioned and tested against present realities. The pursuit of a dream can
become all-consuming, leading to the neglect of the present moment.
A life well-lived requires understanding the roots of fear, nurturing faith, and valuing the present
moment. It’s about striking a balance between the lessons of the past, the aspirations for the future, and
the richness of the present. Only then can human beings truly experience the flow of a life worth living.
