How to Fear Yourself Like You Fear Fire
How do you feel about fire? Do you light candles or attend bonfires? Obviously! It’s an enjoyable experience. Do you make s’ mores at this bonfire? Obviously! They are delicious. But do you put the candles next to your curtains or your bonfire under dead trees? Of course not; the fire could spread and cause damage.
We love fire.
For generations, we have used fire as a creative, constructive tool. It has saved people from starvation and hypothermia. The fire built civilizations. All the while, these civilizations have prevented it from destroying the objects we value. We have firepits for our bonfires and fire alarms for our houses. The government created the fire department and allocated millions of dollars to fire safety. We take every precaution to prevent fire damage.
We fear fire.
How can both be true at the same time? Merriam-Webster defines fear in two ways. First, “an unpleasant, often strong emotion caused by anticipation or awareness of danger.” Second, “profound reverence and awe especially toward God.” The first definition is scared-fear; the second definition is respectful-fear. We have a respectful-fear of fire.
