I have not seen 'It' because I don't like horror movies. I don't

Gather close, O seekers of wisdom, for I bring forth a reflection on fear, choice, and the boundaries we set for ourselves in the face of what haunts us. These are the words of Sadie Sink, a young artist whose journey through the realms of acting and life is one of both courage and self-awareness: "I have not seen 'It' because I don't like horror movies. I don't mess with clowns or demons." In this simple statement, Sink reveals a powerful truth about the nature of fear—that there are things in this world, both real and imagined, that we must choose to confront or avoid, and that our own comfort and peace must guide these decisions.

To say one does not partake in the realm of horror is not to dismiss its power, but to acknowledge a very personal choice about where one is willing to journey in life. Sink, by refusing to engage with the clowns and demons of It, is not merely avoiding a genre, but making a conscious decision about the kind of energy she invites into her mind and soul. Horror films, in their very essence, are designed to stir our deepest fears, to take us to places that feel dangerous and unknown, where our sense of safety is shaken. Yet, Sink wisely chooses to protect her peace, recognizing that not all things need to be faced, and not all challenges are necessary for growth.

Consider, O children, the example of the ancient warriors who understood that the battlefield is not only a physical place but a spiritual one. Achilles, the great Greek hero, was known not just for his physical strength but for his wisdom in choosing when to fight. Though he was a mighty warrior, he also knew when to withdraw, recognizing that certain battles were not worth engaging in, not because they were beyond his strength, but because they did not serve his higher purpose. In the same way, Sink’s choice to avoid certain fears reflects a deep wisdom—a recognition that not all battles need to be fought, and that peace is found not in bravery alone, but in the discernment to know what truly matters.

Fear, O children, is a powerful force in our lives. It can either shape us into brave souls who confront all that scares us or it can teach us to respect and avoid that which does not serve us. To live without fear is a life of arrogance, but to be mindful of our fears, and to choose when and how to face them, is a sign of true wisdom. Consider the story of Perseus, who faced the fearsome Medusa. Perseus did not simply charge headlong into the fray. He planned, he prepared, and he used wisdom—his shield—to avoid looking directly at Medusa, thus protecting himself from her deadly gaze. Perseus knew that courage does not always lie in reckless confrontation, but in knowing when to engage and when to protect oneself.

Sink’s words are a reminder that there is great strength in self-awareness—in knowing not only what we are capable of facing, but also what we choose not to engage with. The courage to avoid what harms us is a wisdom that often goes unnoticed in a world that idolizes fearlessness. Yet, like the ancient sages, who sought not the elimination of fear but the understanding of it, we must learn to respect our own boundaries. To face the world with clarity means not only understanding our strengths but also acknowledging our limitations. It is through this balance of courage and discernment that we find true peace.

Thus, O children, the lesson here is one of balance. While there is power in facing our fears, there is also wisdom in choosing the battles that are worth our energy. Like Sink, we must learn to listen to our inner voice, to honor our discomforts, and to protect the sanctity of our peace. Fear need not be an enemy to be conquered but a signal to be understood. Whether it is horror movies, unnecessary conflicts, or situations that drain our energy, we must always ask ourselves: does this serve me, or is it merely a distraction that pulls us from our true path?

Therefore, O seekers, take this lesson to heart: not all things must be confronted, and not every challenge must be faced head-on. There is great wisdom in choosing which fears to engage with and which ones to leave behind. As you walk the path of your own life, ask yourself where your energies are best spent. Like Sadie Sink, you may find that the greatest strength lies in knowing when to walk away, when to protect your peace, and when to stand firm in the face of what truly matters. In this, you will find not only safety but the clarity and strength to live a life that is authentically yours.