Premium Essay

The Gift of Fear

In: Philosophy and Psychology

Submitted By kwcarlock
Words 1382
Pages 6
“The Gift Of Fear,” a psychology book written by Gavin De Becker, is an extremely useful and informative read. It gives valuable advice about how to act upon human intuition, how to recognize threats, and defines what real fear is and it’s purpose. I found the book to be extremely interesting. This book provided me with a sense of understanding on violence and fear and I feel much better prepared when it comes to recognizing dangerous situations.
My favorite part of the book was the warning signs to know when a stranger is a potential threat. This was fascinating to me because I’ve been told since I was just a little boy to beware of strangers. But with all these warnings about strangers I had never been told how to recognize when a stranger was being genuinely helpful and friendly, or trying to harm me in any way. I found some of the warning signs intriguing such as a method called Forced Teaming. Stranger’s use forced teaming to create a sense of trust. They team themselves together with their victim by saying “we” and making it seem like they’re closer than they really are to their victims by pairing them together. Other warning signs were fairly obvious such as Discounting The Word No. This means that the stranger won’t leave when you ask him to. However, something I did learn by reading about this was that if you let the stranger get away with discounting the word no just once you have given them control. They feel as if you are weak and can be easily convinced. The proper thing to do is to stick to your No, don’t negotiate. Be stern and show you’re in control and not them. I feel like out of all the things I read, this will stick with me the most. Strangers often converse with me and this information about saying no and sticking to it has the potential to save me from an extremely dangerous situation
The most interesting part of the book was when the author

Similar Documents

Premium Essay

Holy Spirit Research Paper

...Wisdom is the first of the seven gifts of the holy spirit which are strengthened through the sacrament of confirmation. Wisdom helps us realize that the truths of Christian belief are far more important to are eternal soul that the things of these worlds, and and it helps us love creation for the sake of god instead of the sake of the creation itself. Another gift of the holy spirit is understanding. The gift of Understanding allows us to graspthe very essence of the truths of the Catholic faith. Through understanding, we gain a certitude about our beliefs that moves beyond faith. Counsel is the third gift of the holy spirit. Prudence can be practiced by anyone, but counsel is supernatural. Through this gift of the Holy Spirit, we are able...

Words: 641 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

Moral Virtues

...Chapter 11 The Moral Virtues Once the various faculties of the soul are rectified in regard to the supernatural order through the theological virtues, it is necessary to rectify them in regard to the means for attaining that end. This is the role of the moral virtues. As we have already mentioned, it is impossible to enumerate all the moral virtues, since there can be a virtue wherever there can be a morally good habit regarding a given area of human activity, and human activities are multiple. However, theologians generally group the moral virtues around the basic cardinal virtues of prudence, justice, temperance, and fortitude. Prudence The first of the four cardinal virtues and the most important as a fulcrum for all the other moral virtues is prudence. It is a special virtue infused by God into the practical intellect for the right government of one's actions in view of the supernatural end. Prudence is the most necessary of all the moral virtues because its function is precisely to point out and command the just mean or measure in regard to any and all human actions. It enables us to judge accurately what is the morally good thing to do under particular circumstances. The importance of the virtue of prudence is especially evident in certain aspects of human life. First, it helps the individual avoid sin, pointing out through experience the causes and occasions of sin as well as the opportune remedies. Secondly, it contributes to the increase and growth of virtue...

Words: 3021 - Pages: 13

Premium Essay

Importance of the Fear of the Lord

...IMPORTANCE OF THE FEAR OF THE LORD - Jesusanya, Adeleke (R.C.C.G Transfiguration Chapel, Lagos Province 27) PROVERB 16:6 “The Fear of the Lord” is a topic that is rarely talked about by preachers and ministers of the Gospel today. Yet it could be a major determinant to living a victorious Christian Life in this world and a necessary condition for making it to heaven at last. Often we hear talks about the gifts and fruits of the Spirit, which are extremely important to operate in the miraculous and a sufficient condition to making it to heaven respectively. However, this topic is equally important and a unique gift of the Holy Spirit that is lacking in the Church today. Even the Lord Jesus needed the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the LORD along with other gifts of the Holy Spirit to be successful in His Ministry while on earth. Isaiah 11:2. But what is “the fear of the LORD?” Literarily, “the fear of the LORD” means to be afraid; to dread; to respect; to reverence; to quake or tremble before, to honour, to obey and to worship the Almighty God, Father of the Lord Jesus Christ, my Father and your Father. However, according to the scriptures, the “fear of the LORD” means the following: i. It is the beginning of knowledge – Prov.1:7; Hosea 4:6-7; Isaiah 5:13. ii. It makes you to hate evil, pride and arrogancy, and the evil way. . . Prov. 8:13; 6:16-19; Rom.1:28-32; iii. It is the beginning of wisdom. Prov.9:10; 4:5, 7; 1:20-23; 15:33. iv. It prolongs days. Prov.10:27;...

Words: 418 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

One of a Kind

...EVANGELISM ON A PERSONAL LEVEL Convictions, fears and longings Even before this postmodern era, we have made assumptions that moved evangelism to the sidelines of the ministry of the church. Without even suggesting that every Christian has the gift of evangelism, I would like to argue that for the church to function biblically it has to rediscover its role as an outreach movement whose sole existence is for the benefit of others. Only then the church can see itself as a vital community reaching the lost and exercising its gifts. The Bible leaves no doubt that our God is committed to outreach. His commands and His laws are given to live by. However, we are called upon not only to live the gospel but spread the gospel. The Great Commission leaves us no choice for the church but to go. Evangelism is not an option. So it is not a question whether we should or shouldn’t. Going for God is part of our fabric as a church. It is who we are in Jesus. In Romans 10:14-15 Paul explains our responsibility to spread the good news about Jesus to others: "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" The question is, what are my convictions, fears, if any, and longings aroused in me by this lesson? It is my conviction...

Words: 584 - Pages: 3

Premium Essay

The Fight for Life

...The most extraordinary people are those who have known anguish, suffering, and loss, yet find their way out of the depths of despair. Life changes at a great pace, and many times it is hard to appreciate the things that are available until they are gone. Mankind has been given a gift that cannot be bought: the gift of life. Though it is not a gift that has been particularly requested, it is one that requires fight and determination to keep. In the book Life of Pi by Yann Martel, Pi does not fully treasure this gift until he almost loses it. He realizes its value and for this reason wills himself physically, morally, and spiritually to stay alive and ultimately preserves the gift of life.  Pi’s devotion and faith in God is an important theme in the book. Toiling in devotion, Pi is able to overcome many hardships, which, in turn, help him gain the will to live. “Faith in God is an opening up, a letting go, a deep trust, a free act of love — but sometimes it was so hard to love. Sometimes my heart was sinking so fast with anger, desolation, and weariness, I was afraid it would sink to the very bottom of the Pacific and I would not be able to lift it back up. At such moments I tried to elevate myself” (Martel 231). In these trial-some times, Pi expresses his strife and inner struggle; however, he is determined not to lose faith in God. Pi attempts to control his negative feelings to avoid a lack of morale, which would decrease his odds of surviving. Pi is a clear example of the...

Words: 2025 - Pages: 9

Free Essay

Fear of Frogs

...knew that Carrie was very afraid of frogs and he wanted to help Carrie to overcome her fear by getting a frog as a pet for her. When they reached the pet shop, John asked politely for a baby frog. Meanwhile, Carrie was looking snowy-white puppy and thought that John was buying a dog for her as he knew that Carrie was fond of dogs. When she asked John about buying a pet, John asked her to close her eyes. John whispered, "Carrie, you may open your eyes now!" Carrie gasped in shock when he showed her the frog, She screamed so loudly that everyone was looking at her. Carrie's skin felt cold and clammy and her face flushed brightly. Suddenly, the frog leaped towards her, and landed on her arm. She stared at it in horror and fear was written all over her face. She was so scared that she threw the frog back to John and ran out of the shop. Carrie thought to herself," That was so scary!" Why on earth did John want to give me as frog as a pet? Can't he just give me something else like a cat or a cute little puppy? Anyway should I accept John's slimy gift? If I accept it, John will be happy. However, how do I take care of it? If I don't, he might be angry with me or even call me a scaredy cat! It is so slimy and disgusting!” Carrie thought for a long time before deciding whether to accept it or not. Carrie knew that John meant well and he was just trying to help Carrie to overcome her fear, so she just asked John, “If I keep it, will you teach me how to take care of it?" "Of...

Words: 381 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

Explain What Freedom Means To Me

...soldiers who died trying helped us earn and keep those rights. I haven’t always realized how fortunate I am to live in a country where my family and I can live without fear. Not many countries in the world are like America; in fact, no other country is. At twelve years old, my greatest stress is having to endure being constantly tested and made...

Words: 474 - Pages: 2

Premium Essay

Xenia In The Odyssey

...Depending on the level and rank of their social status, this would determine how well a person could accommodate a guest. Men were measured by the way they played the host or the guest. Typically a guest would bring gifts to their host as a show of respect for that household and people within it. Many guests would also bring information from the outside. This was very crucial and desired since the communications of that time were quite limited. Because Zeus was the god of travelers and guests, defining your social class and ones’ favor with Zeus influenced the level of hospitality. In the story, here are some examples where good hospitably are shown: when Athene goes to Telemachus or when Telemachus goes to Nestor and Menelaus; or when Odysseus goes to Eumaios or Phaiakians. Social status was very important because wealth and values were immediately seen as soon as the guest entered the house. There were even incidents were the host would exchange goods with their guests. Another example of hospitality presented in this writing is when Odysseus is in Polyphemus’ cave. Even when death is staring Odysseus in the face, he still expected good hospitality. When people of the Odyssey time period show hospitality, it included providing gifts, a feast along with shelter and comfort as well as a listening ear. Before a host inquires about anything regarding their guest’s life or business, their main priority was the comfort of that guest. Just like in the Odyssey, when...

Words: 1051 - Pages: 5

Free Essay

The Working of the Holy Spirit: Charismatic Theology

...Table of Contents Thesis Statement 1 The Need for the Study 1 The Procedure for the Study 1 Introduction 1 Defining Charismatic Theology 1 History of Charismatic Theology 2 Declarations 2 Baptism of the Holy Spirit 2 Speaking in Tongues 3 Gift of Healing 4 Gift of Prophecy 5 Slain in the Spirit 7 Personal Views 7 Opposing Views 9 Conclusion 10 Selected Bibliography 11 Thesis Statement Charismatic Theology gives contemporary Christians faith that they may experience declarations of the Holy Spirit in the same manner as first century Christians. The Need for the Study There is controversy surrounding the declarations of Charismatic Theology. This research will provide ways in which Scripture is manipulated to meet ones individual needs. Biblical exegesis will be utilized to provide clarification between Scripture and its alterations. The Procedure for the Study Introduction Charismatic Theology takes an in-depth look at the supernatural experiences explained in the Bible. These experiences are considered gifts that Christians receive from God. Not everyone agrees on the meanings of these references. Controversy comes into play when scripture is manipulated to meet the needs of the person reading it. A better understanding for Charismatic Theology can be gained by reviewing its history, exploring the declarations and examining...

Words: 3580 - Pages: 15

Premium Essay

World Civilization Cortez

...country full of riches. Cortes’ use of leadership played a fundamental role the result of the conquest of Mexico. From the very beginning he to induced fear into the Mexicas with the usage of technology, he made them believe they were tueles by acting god like, he befriended many enemy states and most of all his military technique when they entered Tencohtitlan lead to their conquest of Mexico. Moctezuma’s leadership on the other hand lead to the conquest of Mexico, he would give gifts and praise the Spaniards not inflicting fear. He lost all power over the Mexicas once he was captured which lead to their conquest. Leadership, military and political strategies led to the conquest of Mexico. The Spaniards finally arrived at the Port of San Juan de Ulua, they were greeted by two ambassadors sent by Moctezuma. These ambassadors were accompanied with painters to take pictures back to their prince. Cortes saw this as a chance to make an impression of their technology and strength. “Cortes Ordered our gunner to load the lombards with great charge of powder so that they should make a great noise when they were fired” (Schwartz 87). This passage is an example of how Cortes used his leadership to their benefit. He also told the horsemen to get ready so Moctezuma’s servant would see them. Cortes ordered these actions to place fear on Moctezuma’s servants and on Moctezuma himself. The Mexicas never saw horses or heard these loud noises,...

Words: 2452 - Pages: 10

Free Essay

To My Kids

...He hung his head low and he never looked at anyone at all. Adam never did his homework. I don't think his parents reminded him like yours do. The other kids teased Adam a lot. Whenever they did, his head hung lower and lower and lower. I never teased him, but I never told the other kids to stop, either. And I never talked to Adam, not once. I never invited him to sit next to me at lunch, or to play with me at recess. Instead, he sat and played by himself. He must have been very lonely. I still think about Adam every day. I wonder if Adam remembers me? Probably not. I bet if I'd asked him to play, just once, he'd still remember me. I think that God puts people in our lives as gifts to us. The children in your class this year, they are some of God's gifts to you. So please treat each one like a gift from God. Every single one. If you see a child being left out, or hurt, or teased, a part of your heart will hurt a little. Dink and I want you to trust that heartache. Your whole life, we want you to notice and trust your heartache. That heartache is called compassion, and it is God's signal to you to do something. It is God saying, Bethany, William, Brendan! Wake up! One of my babies is hurting! Do something to help! Whenever you feel compassion -- be thrilled! It means God is speaking to you, and that is magic. It means He trusts you and needs you. Sometimes the magic of compassion will make you step into the middle of a bad situation right away. Compassion might lead you to...

Words: 823 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Becoming and Organ Donor

...COMM/215 January 13, 2014 Ruth Palumbo Become an Organ Donor The New Year is here and it’s the time of year full of cheer, love, gift giving, and resolutions. Why not consider the resolution of giving the gift of life by becoming an organ donor? According to the Mayo Clinic, “over 100,000 people in the United States are waiting for an organ donation. (Mayo Clinic 2013).In fact, the latest number from UNOS is 120,860. In additions eighteen people will die every day waiting for the life saving organ to come. They will never receive the call stating, “we found a match.” The call that can that give them a second chance at life. Most of us don’t think about what happens to the body after you die. It is a sensitive subject matter people prefer not to think about, let alone discuss with their families and friends. However, everyone should take the time to discuss the importance of, “how can I help others if I were to die? Various questions should be asked: Why should I donate my organs? What are the benefits? Are there any reasons not to? What happens to me? These are excellent questions that can be answered by viewing the OrganDonor.gov website. Many people do not think about signing a donor card because of the many myths surrounding organ transplant and tissue donation. Most of these myths are not true and are based on fear. Some of these fears include: the hospital staff won’t work as hard to save my life, maybe I won’t really be dead when they sign my death certificate...

Words: 868 - Pages: 4

Premium Essay

Social Responsibility

...employees of Red Hat from the general laborers to the CEO Daily Operational Rules to Follow Red Hat will conduct its business with the honesty and integrity with compliance in both the letter of the applicable laws, regulations of the areas that it does business. Red Hat is committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct in dealings with employees, customers, communities, suppliers, and subcontractors, and will be compliant with its policies and procedures. Red Hat will foster a free and open atmosphere that allows encouragement to employees and others to make inquiries, express work-related personal concerns regarding ethics issues, to report business ethics violations or violation of laws, regulations, and policies without any fear of retaliation from anyone. The Red Hat employee Ethics and Concerns Office is responsible for the overall administration and application of the ethics program. The Red Hat employee Ethics and Concerns Office will communicate all the necessary standards needed for business ethics by providing biannual training to promote the understanding of the standards that Red Hat will conduct all business operations. Also they will convey the potential consequences of any violations likely to occur during normal business operations. The Red Hat employee Ethics and Concerns...

Words: 1378 - Pages: 6

Premium Essay

The Way of the Superior Man

...T H E WAY O F THE S U P E R I O R MAN A Spiritual Guide to Mastering and the Challenges of Women, Work, Sexual Desire DAVID DEIDA P L E X U S 1997 IMPORTANT CAUTION - PLEASE READ THIS Although anyone may find the practices, disciplines and understandings in this book to be useful, it is sold with the understanding that neither the author nor the publisher are engaged in presenting specific medical, psychological, emotional, sexual, or spiritual advice. Nor is anything in this book intended to be a diagnosis, prescription, recommendation, or cure for any specific kind of medical, psychological, emotional, sexual, or spiritual problem. Each person has unique needs and this book cannot take these individual differences into account. Each person should engage in a program of treatment, prevention, cure, or general health only in consultation with a licensed, qualified physician, therapist, or other competent professional. Any person suffering from venereal disease or any local illness of his or her sexual organs or prostate gland should consult a medical doctor and a qualified instructor of sexual yoga before practicing the sexual methods described in this book. PLEXUS 815-A Brazos, Suite 445-B Austin, TX 78701 © 1997 by David Deida All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the...

Words: 52885 - Pages: 212

Premium Essay

Words of Comfort: What to Say When Someone Is Dying

...of the time I really liked when people said nothing," notes Michelle Colon-Johnson, who has been diagnosed with stage four cancer five times and survived. "If I wanted to talk about the cancer, it felt good to know I could talk to others, but I never wanted to be treated differently." Experts who assist patients in their final days say the best thing to do for someone who has recently been diagnosed is to allow them to guide your conversations and actions. "They might not want to talk," explains social worker Edie McCaddin-Bower, vice president of support services at Beacon Hospice. McCaddin-Bower says it's important to respect the patient's wishes, but let them know you're willing to lend an ear to hear their thoughts, wishes and fears whenever they are ready. Fellow social worker Meredith Cinman, ancillary services coordinator at Amedisys Hospice in Valenica, CA, adds that loved ones should try not to worry about saying the "right thing" but spend more time listening to the patient. What NOT to Say to Someone Who Is Dying "Avoid platitudes," adds psychiatrist, Huffington Post blogger and author Marcia Sirota M.D. "Saying things like, ‘Everything happens for a reason,' and ‘It's God's will,' can make the person feel like (their illness) is their fault." Trying to reassure a patient they'll be o.k. can be hurtful because they know it isn't true, continues Dr. Sirota. She adds that saying things like ‘You're strong, You'll get through the illness' is equally problematic...

Words: 925 - Pages: 4