Rising Above Fear

By Archisman Chatterjee

Philip stood at the bottom of the escalator, his eyes fixed on the shiny new appliance store on the second floor. His heart raced as he recalled the memory of his last failed attempt to buy a gaming console. Determined, he stepped aboard the moving steps, clutching his wallet tightly.

Halfway up, he noticed a filthy crow perched on the railing, its beady eyes watching his every move. Philip's palms began to sweat; his fear of birds made his journey feel like facing a tiger. He took a deep breath, trying to trick himself into believing he was brave.

As the escalator continued its ascent, he could see the carrot-colored sign of the store getting closer. The crowd around him grew, making him feel like he was in a cage, trapped with no escape. He tried to pretend everything was fine, but his hands shook uncontrollably.

Just as he reached the top, he heard the distant rings of a cash register, signalling a sale. Philip's pulse quickened; he couldn't miss this chance. He moved quickly, dodging other shoppers with a sense of urgency.

Entering the store, Philip's eyes darted around until he spotted the perfect gaming console he yearned for so long. It gleamed under the fluorescent lights, promising a new start. Despite the trickle of anxiety still in his chest, he marched up to the counter, ready to make the purchase.

The sales clerk smiled, and Philip knew he was just moments away from overcoming his weakness. The crow cawed loudly from the doorway, but Philip ignored it, his focus unshaken. Today, he wouldn't let fear cage him. Today, he would succeed.

By Archisman Chatterjee