There is so much to be anxious about these days. For some it may be losing their retirement or even their homes. Everyday, we hear of someone else getting laid off from work and many are anxiously awaiting the call that our job is next to go. Loved ones all around us seem to be struggling with cancer, loss, and pain. Of course we are anxious.
Only, anxiety is nothing new for us. Just as many people were struggling with panic attacks, anxiety and depression before our circumstances took a down turn.
“Anxiety is a physiological reaction that denies the heart and commands the brain to look externally to find a threat to explain our sense of dread…Anxiety misinforms us. It says for us to control when we need to let go.” (Dodd, 86).
Fear is a gift that alerts us to danger and moves us toward an action that protects us from danger. Fear offers us wisdom, discernment and judgment. When we try to control our environment so that we will not be vulnerable, our hearts choose anxiety. When we are able to acknowledge our fears, we open our hearts to wisdom.
“Anxiety commands that you make yourself invulnerable. Fear requests that you expose vulnerability and neediness to gain healthy control, the appropriate care of your own welfare” (87).
It is an uncertain time. Everything may feel out of control. But it is also a time that will only be more confusing if we allow anxiety to take control of our lives. Use your fear to embrace wisdom, let go of those things you can’t control and make informed decisions to move you forward in your life. When we are able to acknowledge our fears, we open our hearts to wisdom?
All quotes are from "The Voice of the Heart" by Chip Dodd
Comments