FEAR

fear: it’s something that we all experience to some extent in our lifetimes, no matter how frail or strong we each appear. often,  it’s a feeling we wish to ignore, to push it down deep until it’s only a passing thought. in this instance, are we dealing with it or just turning a blind eye until it’s triggered to come to the surface? 

this issue came about in my search for these answers. after suffering from several panic attacks in late 2021, I started to wonder if ignoring my fear was more damaging than I knew. acknowledgment of the things that scare us most is so important because it is the first step towards healing and facing those monsters that live inside our minds.

I want to sincerely thank the contributors to this issue. Fear is a scary subject, and turning it into art can be even more terrifying. tt takes a lot to express what frightens you most, so I want you to know that I am proud of you. even more, I hope you were able to find a bit of healing in your artistic expression. to the readers of this issue, I hope you find community in the artistry you witness. You are not alone in your fears, no matter how often your mind tricks you into believing so. 

let these stories inspire you to push forward with a new level of fearlessness you have yet to experience.

love,

keiarra mclean