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FEAR

False Evidence Appearing Real: Taming Fear

Fear is an instinct hardwired in us from birth. It serves an indispensable purpose to alert us to danger — like an approaching hurricane or encountering a snake. Fear makes us aware of possible peril, so we can defend ourselves or evade harm.

Most of us experience another form of a fear, though. In recovery, we refer to when False Evidence Appears Real, or when we Forget Everything is Alright. It’s a “self-centered fear” that takes root when we don’t have control and internally demand we gain it. It becomes a disabling emotion when we demand to keep what we have or obtain what we don’t. And we become suspicious of threats to what we think we want or need.

Business was good. That settlement was within grasp. Then, COVID-19. Now, gripped by FEAR, we’ve just got to get back in the game and make something happen. But as we grow spiritually, we see that everything is just as it should be. Not for us to manipulate, but for us to explore and find blessings within.

We lose the fear of not getting what we want. We trust we’ll be given what we need.

We are not fearful of losing what we have, but grateful for having ever received it.

Self-centered fear is a virus of its own. Faith and gratitude are the vaccine.

And another lawyer reflects:

FEAR: Forgetting Everything is Alright

For me, fear creeps in when I don’t know what the future holds–fear of the unknown and a loss of control. My mind wanders, and I imagine all of the worst possibilities and the “what ifs.” Fear is a great illusionist that can consume my thoughts, take me away from the present and make me lose sight of the past.  The easiest way for me to combat my fear is to make a mental gratitude list: my family is safe; we are all healthy; I am able to work from home with normal salary and benefits; and I have an ample supply of toilet paper. Gratitude is free and fast, and it reminds me that everything is alright.