Sunday, January 04, 2009

My grandfathers' advise on how to deal with fear....

These were part of the contents in a letter sent by my maternal grandfather, Andres Arce, from Costa Rica, on my fear of performing in public (guitar was our common bond). I was probably 15-16 at the time living in Linconton, he was already in his mid-70's, of course the letter is in Spanish so the countour of the phrasing may seem odd.

.... in order to play before the public, or wherever the opportunity presents itself. In this manner you begin to erode the fear or anxiety (this is very pertinent to public speaking). These discomforts we all have, but when we are well prepared and launch into action, all fear disappears; as Gd is in all things and with faith and effort we never fail with him. Forward and never a backwards step, as you are starting to live your life and have your entire future before you. Remember, the world belongs to those that are audacious, thus you must not give importance to failure, as there are no infallible human beings. That is why constancy is the mother of success. Do not forget this! With all my love and affection, Andres

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