For the past four months, I have not contributed to this forum, as I went through a difficult time. I just did not seem to have the energy to write about anything. A couple of weeks ago, something happened that told me clearly that I have a very long way to go before I can just 'watch' my thoughts and emotions so that they will not have any negative effect on me.
A few weeks ago, a government department sent my wife and me a letter in which they informed us that our Age Pension had been cancelled, as I was deemed to earn too much. Upon my visiting a branch of this department, the staff were helpful as always and they quickly reinstated our pension. They admitted to having made a mistake by placing one zero too much against an updated figure provided by me a few days earlier.
The point to the above is that, when I saw this letter, my heart went into overdrive and I was gripped by, what I can only call, a panic attack. Yet, I knew intellectually that it obviously was a mistake that could be easily rectified. The fact that I was gripped by such a strong emotion prompted me to write this post. I need your help to determine how I can come to grips with such situations without my going to pieces. How can I apply Tolle's teachings in such a case?
I quote from Ben in one of his posts elsewhere:
Although this website is replete with some very good posts, I would appreciate an input as to what the best way is to tackle these unnecessary fears of mine. I have often tried to practise being in the Now but have met with very little success so far. I can manage to obtain a fair degree of peace and presence in nature but not anywhere else. It makes sense what Ben says but I find it very difficult to follow his suggestions.Other fears are less tangible, and always have to do with circumstances that are beyond my control. I can't control what people think about me, I can't control how people judge my work or my looks, I can't control terrorist threat, just as I can't control the weather! Those are the kind of fears that are debilitating and self destructable, because no matter how much you think these "problems" over, you can never solve them. Accept there is a whole world out there that is beyond your control. Realize that there is no way to control it. Later on, you may realize that there is no NEED to control it. This helps me to let go of my problems. It may be an intellectual approach to addressing yor fears, but it works for me. Very Happy
I have taken a number of practical steps in an attempt to reduce my depression and anxiety. As a result, I am now able again to spend time on this forum. Your input will be highly regarded.
Regards to all