A couple of weeks ago, I attended a workshop, subtitled "Releasing fear and embracing joy". One of the handouts was an interpretation of "fear" as an acronym; False Emotion Appearing Real. I first came across this idea several years ago, in the slightly different form, False Evidence Appearing Real. Whilst the concept had some appeal, the interpretation didn`t; so, after some contemplation, I came up with Flagrant Exaggeration, As Reality - which was an improvement. Subsequently, I thought of Faith Eradicated, Awaiting Resurrection, which then - and still - resonates profoundly with me. The recent workshop set me thinking again about this interpretation, which, for me, relates to fear arising from a loss of faith in my ability to deal with whatever experiences my journey may bring to me.
At the workshop, we spent some time discussing the distinction between rational and irrational fear, and a view was expressed that all fear has a rational basis.
I believe that I am exceptional, and have an innate ability to cope with whatever may come my way; and that, therefore, fear would always be irrational.
I also believe that you are exceptional, and have the same ability!
Love, truth and joy,
Ian x

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Absolutely bluddy brilliant!

Great to share stuff like this, and so heartening to see a person so self-aware through the process you find yourself in.

In your own way, you can inspire others through your honesty and candour. Keep it up!

Peace

Asif

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Ditto,,,
Some of us spend far too much energy trying to conquer irrational and in the end inconsequential fears,

Last edited: 9-04-2009 05:42:02 AM

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Cheers guys.
Great photo` Asif - which I have captioned "If fear comes knocking, stick your tongue out at it!"
Love and light,
Ian x

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Love it Ian

Yasmin x

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"Subsequently, I thought of Faith Eradicated, Awaiting Resurrection, which then - and still - resonates profoundly with me. The recent workshop set me thinking again about this interpretation, which, for me, relates to fear arising from a loss of faith in my ability to deal with whatever experiences my journey may bring to me."

Blimey, how absolutely spot on! Thanks for posting this. I've come to realise lately that becoming fearless is about the most useful thing I can do for myself, my family, my clients, everyone I meet, really. When you shine your light fearlessly you can see people relaxing, as though they feel safer around you, it's amazing. I've got a very religious friend who is almost perpetually terrified (goodness knows what of). I've put it to her humbly that, had she the faith she claims to possess, she wouldn't be afraid of ANYTHING.

I feel very strongly about this! (in a non-attached sort of way, Jon )

Anna x

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Most people live in FEAR, PAIN or FEAR OF PAIN.

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You've summed it up in a nutshell, jon!

Get fearless, it's the only way.

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I have been reflecting on the idea of becoming fearless, and have concluded that it`s not a good idea - fear keeps me safe! Also, fear and pain are only two of the ways in which I suffer. Having been contemplating the fourth of the Four Noble Truths of the Buddha, I feel that perhaps the true path to actualisation of cessation of suffering, lies in the annihilation of false ego. I think it`s worth a shot - if I can work out what I`m talking about!
Love and light,
Ian x

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What's happened to Anna?

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I noticed her profile disappeared a while ago, any news anyone??

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And don't forget the Bach flower remedies for 'known & unknown fears' - mimulus & aspen! They really do help!

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Yes, I have heard from her and she is fine.

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Hi Helen,
Thank you for reminding me about the good doctor`s flower remedies. I am not a negatively fearful person, but you have prompted me to consider how Bach remedies may help and support the aim to annihilate my false ego; I shall therefore return to those remedies, of which I was so in need, when I was first introduced to them - Vervain and Impatiens!
Om Shanti,
Ian x

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I look at the fabulous achievements of people who consider themselves to be fearful, and I wonder what they would achieve if they could see in themselves the beautiful, courageous people that I see.
Ian x

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If I see through fear (or any other form of suffering), rather than look at it, I believe that I see important and valuable truth. Ian x

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I put myself thru hell for seven months this year with fear based depression, then i got real , sorted it out , took responsibility for some mistakes that i had made, forgave people and learnt my biggest and best lesson yet.
Two nights ago I woke up covered in sweat, locked jaw and nearly vomiting so i opened my eyes and said " my angel buddy Micheal , this fear is not real , take it away RIGHT now and went back to sleep , problem solved. The next morning i gave myself a Heart Reasonance treatment, high fived my angel buddies and got on with living.
love and light Kerrie

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Well done, Kerrie. Your post brings this quote to mind; "Self-knowledge is the beginning of wisdom, which is the ending of fear." J Krishnamurti; The First and Last Freedom.
Ian x
PS What is Heart Reasonance treatment? I could probably do with some!

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I think fear can be both positive and negative. The positive side is that it takes us out of our comfort zone, it pushes our personal boundaries and makes us grow as people (only if we choose to confront the fear). I think becoming fearless is impossible because we always have personal boundaries and we would stop expanding our horizons.
But Ian, I like the exaggerating reality acronym. That one definitely sits well with me!!

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Your right Ali, there are 2 types of fear, if you walk around the corner and see 5 6'6" bikers intent on smashing you, you better be afraid and run like hell, your not going to face them down. The other type is fearing what others think of you, and that is actually none of your business.

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