March 2014
The distinction between “anxiety”, “fear” and “worry” is minimal and often indistinguishable. Whatever your emotional vocabulary, these feelings are uncomfortable, sometimes debilitating and not easy to avoid once they move in.
Unhappiness and discomfort in life is typically fueled by a few emotions; including anxiety, fear, and worry. They may feel like guests who showed up at your door and don’t want to leave. When tragedy or hardship hits, they might tighten their grip, setting up home in your head and heart.
These emotions can wash over you like a tidal wave or be an undercurrent of your daily life. Unrelenting doubts and fears can interfere with good quality of life while sapping your emotional energy.
Sara, a client from years ago, said to me, “I fear failure. I worry about being rejected. And, I certainly avoid making any mistakes. That’s just who I am and I’ve always been with way.”. Sara had difficulty sleeping through the night, was snapping at her husband/children and was eating more due to stress. She sought help from me to experience more joy in daily life, worry less and sleep better
In one of the early sessions with Sara – she asked if we could use scripture verses in our work because they gave her peace, comfort and security — and tied into her identity as a Christian. Together, we chose this verse:
“The Lord is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” (Psalm 118:6/ESV)
Sara began to shift into a new reality that she could live life without fear and anxiety in the forefront. She was able to relax her anxious parts and address those fears with a calm and heart-felt interest. Sara began to get to know these uninvited guests with patience and curiosity. As her understanding and compassion for those emotions increased – their grip decreased – and she welcomed them with open arms.
Only when we heal the anxiety/fear and stop trying to make it go away – can we begin to live more fully in the present moment and move into the future with courage, clarity and hope.
Peace be with you.
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