“Fear, uncertainty, and doubt or FUD can be one of the biggest obstacles to overcome when facing the unknown or a significant change.”
So were the words from a wise teacher I had the good fortune of working with years ago. He challenged me to see a situation from all perspectives with a keen eye for those elements or situations which would likely generate some FUD. Sometimes the FUD is generated by others, sometimes it’s internal. Recognizing those emotions and the churn they generate gives us an opportunity for choice.
We have such a beautiful example in today’s Gospel reading in which Peter lets anxiety blur his vision for what could be. It’s noteworthy that Peter heard the call and responded positively. He was moving forward across the water until he became distracted and concerned by the wind. He let his attention wander and the deviated path made way for fear, uncertainty, and doubt. I can relate to the ebb and flow of anxiety and excitement co-existing. Doubt can sit alongside commitment. There can be space for both fear and faith. Which one do I heed? Where can my heart lead me? Am I listening?
It’s the next moment in which there is an opportunity to succumb or to rise. Fortunately for Peter and inspirational for us, fear didn’t stop him from stepping out of the boat. He made that first step and then the second. He chose faith over fear despite the presence of both. Maybe it’s the recognition of that which is essential. Afterall, faith isn’t stagnated. It’s in motion. When he falters, Jesus doesn’t call out to Peter to chastise him nor tell him to stay where it feels safe. He says, “Come”, and extends the invitation to meet him. Faith grows through difficulty rather than confirmed in comfort.
As humans, fear, uncertainty, and doubt can be a passageway to deeper faith, renewed humility, and heartfelt openness. Jesus stretched out his hand to catch Peter. The sense of dread was overcome with calm assurance that being caught was not only possible but real. I pray that we all find that willingness to step out beyond the FUD to allow ourselves to be held in love with full recognition that the tides will shift and the opportunities for new challenges and choices will yet again surface.
Colette O’Meara-McKinney
Colette O’Meara-McKinney, Ed.D. serves as the Associate Dean for Student Affairs and Admissions at the Creighton University School of Dentistry. In addition, she is the Director of the Program for Ignatian Mindfulness within the School of Dentistry which aims to integrate mindfulness practice with Jesuit values to guide in the formation of caring, competent health professionals.
