That instinct has enormous survival value. But it also means we can sometimes mistake an unfamiliar shape for something dangerous.
A dusty pistachio shell can look like a creature.
A shadow can look like a person.
A harmless stain can suddenly resemble something frightening.
The next time something ordinary looks terrifying, remember: fear is an alarm system, not a scientific conclusion.
Turn on the light. Look carefully. Check the facts.
Sometimes the “monster” isn’t a monster at all.
Sometimes it’s just yesterday’s snack hiding in the wrong place.