It’s hard to look at one’s own fears. – fear of criticism from others, fear of being different, fear of not measuring up, fear of being imperfect, fear of persecution, fear of fear. But fear is okay, and fear is part of the human condition.
For me, it’s really important to feel my fear when I feel it, accept it as part of who I am, listen to the messages it brings, and take appropriate action to release it.
If I’m living with a psychopath, the appropriate action is to break off the relationship and find healthier, more supportive relationships.
If I’m dealing with arrogant, pompous people, the appropriate action may be to accept the arrogance and pomposity without kowtowing to it and supporting it. If I can stay centered throughout their verbal explosions, they will ultimately exhaust themselves and retreat to a more human level. This is a wonderful lesson in spiritual centeredness and courage.
If I’m afraid that if I stand in the middle of a busy highway, I’ll get hit by a car, I better listen to that fear.
To release my deepest fears, even my terrors, I MUST trust and pray to a power greater than myself. Is there really any such thing? I don’t know. But when I’m feeling fear, I must believe if I want to stay functional.