In this video titled “An Ordinary Man,” “Fear,” host Jim Wining shares a personal story from his childhood to illustrate how to overcome fear through patience and incremental steps.
Overcoming the Fear of the “Slippery Slide”
Jim recalls being a large fifth-grader who was paralyzed by a fear of heights 01:14Opens in a new window. Specifically, he was terrified of a nine-foot tall slippery slide on the school playground 01:25Opens in a new window. He would often stand in line but back out before reaching the top, convinced he could never do it 02:02Opens in a new window.
The Teacher’s Nine-Week Plan
His fifth-grade teacher noticed his struggle and implemented a patient, step-by-step strategy to help him 02:18Opens in a new window:
- Week 1: He only had to stand on the first step with both feet and then step back down 03:10Opens in a new window.
- Weeks 2-8: Each week, he added one more step, climbing a little higher before coming back down 04:03Opens in a new window.
- Week 9: He finally reached the ninth step (the platform), sat down, and successfully slid down for the first time 04:25Opens in a new window.
The Spiritual Lesson
Jim connects this experience to adult life and faith, noting that:
- Fear is diverse: People face various fears, from elevators and crowds to marriage and even the challenges of being a Christian 00:46Opens in a new window.
- Support matters: Just as his teacher was patient and supportive, he encourages adults to help children break down barriers and obstacles 06:28Opens in a new window.
- Faith as a journey: He suggests that becoming a Christian can feel scary due to potential challenges or judgment, but taking small “steps” in one’s spiritual walk leads to the comfort and peace of Jesus Christ
