Litany Against Fear

In Frank Herbert’s Dune, the Bene Gesserits — a class of highly educated and skilled female spies — recite the litany of fear in order to focus during times of danger. It’s a powerful mantra and one of my favorite quotes from Dune.

I must not fear.

Fear is the mind-killer.

Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration.

I will face my fear.

I will permit it to pass over me and through me.

And when it has gone past, I will turn the inner eye to see its path.

Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain.