Fear of Failure

Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgement that something else is more important than fear. ~Ambrose Redmoon



We all have that friend. The one who challenges us to expand beyond our personal boundries and accept, if not overcome of fear of failure. For Ron, this is Thomas.



Thomas stories have reached legendary proportions. There is the time he removed a fish bone stuck in his throat with scissors. The eco-challenge he participated in because it 'sounded fun', and the fashion show prior to his travel to Greece (hint, the only thing modeled was a speedo!) Robbie's favorite story of Thomas is the lighting of a sparkler at both ends and then using it to light an entire pile of fireworks on fire.



No story really gives a full picture of Thomas, the man. Handsome in a completely approachable, unselfconcious way, Thomas not only breaks hearts but has his broken as well. Earnest, caring and pan-like in his childlike enjoyment of the world around him, he is at times misunderstood. His openness, honestly and geniune thoughtfulness could be misconstrued as simple. I believe that Thomas is a deep thinker.



One would have no trouble thinking that Thomas is good at everything he does, that his skills are inate and that he is one of those people who is just born with extraordinary talents. That is probably not(although I have no evidence of this) the case. What Thomas is good at is not allowing fear to keep him from doing anything he wants to do. To me, this is courageous and I envy him his ability to carpe diem. This is a man who has lived in Singapore, traveled south east Asia, Europe and Latin America and currently leads arctic tours through his company Arctic Kingdom http://www.arctickingdom.com/. He is also the man who's patience and directness with Robbie in the years he has know him have been an example to Ron and I. His affection and devil may care attitude with Hannah has made 'Uncle Thomas' a contender for her hand in marriage (although Ron may have something to say about this with this.)


Everyone needs a 'Thomas' in their lives.