Question

The prose selections, Deep Water and Indigo, bring out the importance of overcoming fear, in order to be able to lead our lives successfully.

Imagine yourself to be a motivational speaker who has to address high school students. Write this address in 120 – 150 words elaborating on occurrences from the two texts to inspire your audience and to convince them about the importance of overcoming fear. 

You may begin like this …

Good morning, students!

We all know what it’s like to be afraid. Fear is our body’s natural response to a perceived threat or danger. But when …

Answer 1

• Fear immobilizes us and prevents us from progressing – as in the case of William Douglas – due to his fear of water he could not lead a normal life – could not go fishing, canoeing, etc. Similarly, due to their fear of the Britishers, the peasants of Champaran could not take a stand for their rights. 
• Need to face our fear, devise a plan and work through it – William Douglas worked through his fear rather than giving into it. When the peasants gathered around the courthouse in Motihari, it was a step towards overcoming their fear. 
• Require determination – persistence – it took Douglas monthsto overcome hisfear of water and learn swimming. It took nearly a year to get justice for the peasants in Champaran.
• strength in unity when fighting a common fear – only when the people in Champaran were they able to overcome their fear and fight for justice.
• But once overcome, one is free to live his / her life to the fullest.