"We are more disturbed by a calamity which threatens us than by one which has befallen us"

This quote by John Lancaster Spalding speaks to the human tendency to fear the unknown. We are most likely to be disturbed by a potential catastrophe than one that has already occurred. This is due to the fact that when a disaster has already taken place, we know what to anticipate and can start to plan for the future. Nevertheless, when a calamity is looming, we are left in a state of uncertainty and worry. We don't understand what to expect and can't plan for the future. This worry of the unknown can be incapacitating and can lead to sensations of anxiety and distress. This quote functions as a tip that it is natural to be scared of the unidentified, however that we ought to not let it consume us. We need to rather focus on today and take actions to get ready for the future.