The Gift of Fear written by Gavin de Becker is a book that every woman should read. It is a number one bestseller and recently appeared in the Oprah show. It is a difficult read as it delves into crimes committed against women, but each woman tells her story, gives de Becker insight into the uneasy feeling they had leading up to an attack, but a feeling they ignored. De Becker teaches you how to listen to your 6th sense, how to spot even subtle signs of danger and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
During my first year as a wildlife officer, the Colorado Division of Wildlife’s top undercover investigator gave all of us this book to read. I know that this book may have saved my life. I would have ignored the little voice, not wanting to admit something might be wrong had I not read the book. Nearly every day while working I took along my German shepherd, Kodiak. He was trained in tracking to help me locate lost hunters, injured wildlife, etc. The two of us checked literally hundreds of anglers, hunters, and chatted with everyone else we came across. Kodiak had to be well behaved and never growl unless given a command. Kids regularly opened the door to my truck to pet him.
While on back county checks, I came across a group of hunters in a vehicle and stopped them to check licenses, firearms, etc. I could barely hold Kodiak back. Immediately he began to snarl, growl, bark and lunge at the door. He had NEVER behaved like this before or since. Typically, I leave my window rolled down so I can call him out if needed. I had to roll the window up because I couldn’t keep him in the truck! That uneasy feeling came rushing over me. I was hours from back-up and had no radio or cell phone contact. With Kodiak’s reaction it wasn’t worth the stop. I told the group thanks for stopping, but I had an emergency call and had to head down the mountain. To this day I have no idea what Kodiak sensed, but I listed because of The Gift of Fear. Read this book; give it to friends, daughters, and mothers. It is a true eye opener.
July 1, 2008 at 4:26 pm
Yes, absolutely, read this book. Women, men, teenagers.. everyone should read it. I read it years ago, after my ex husband tried to shoot me, and so many people said, “He would never do a thing like that!” Yes, he would, and he did. I had ignored many warnings along the way. Had I read this book first, I might never have married him at all. We all tend to ignore warning signs in favor of resolving “cognitive dissonance” — when what we are seeing or hearing or sensing disagrees with what we already believe or prefer to believe. Doing so could cost you your life. Pay attention. Read this book. Then read it again, and recommend it to everyone you know.
September 8, 2008 at 9:09 pm
I saw the author on Oprah and I completely forgot about picking up his book. Thank you for the reminder. I’m glad you listened to your instincts!