F. E. A. R. -- Illusion or reality?

I've heard fear described as "False Evidence Appearing Real". While I think that is only part of a true definition, it does make me stop and think. How many of the things that strike a chord of fear in my heart are reality, and how many of them are my assumptions of what reality may turn out to be?

For example: being afraid of dogs. Can dogs be harmful and/or dangerous? Absolutely. Are ALL dogs harmful and/or dangerous? Absolutely NOT. So a fear of dogs is sometimes based in reality, while more often than not, based in an ASSUMPTION of reality.

I've been wrestling with what fear is a lot lately because I've been trying to tear down some of the "False Evidence" in my life that is holding me back.

You've heard the phrase, "all bark and no bite". Imagine a child that was attacked by a dog growing into an adult with an incredible fear of dogs. Is that fear valid? Well, it is based in reality, but is it true, or accurate of ALL dogs?

Imagine this. The individual walks up to a house and knocks on the door. There erupts a terrible barking from indoors, proof that a large, angry dog lives inside. Fear immediately strikes at the heart of our friend. Upon a closer look, we find the dog inside the house to be toothless and hobbling about on three legs from an accident years ago, where she was hit by a car. And she's barking out of excitement that someone is visiting!

I'm guessing our friend would find themselves no longer quite so afraid if they were to see the reality of this particular dog scenario.

Why am I thinking so much about dogs and fear?

I've lived my life with much anxiety over many things. In the past 6 months I have begun to realize that I don't want to stay where I am, I'd rather take some steps to move forward in life. But that means facing my fears.

Facing the reality of why I am where I am.

And that is a very frightening thing! It's scary to look inside yourself and be honest about what you find.

But what's amazing is this -- often, when you look inside and figure out what has been holding you back, then decide to face that fear, it's often not nearly as bad, or dangerous, or painful as you expected.

In simple terms, I'm finding I was frightened by a dog with no teeth! Things that I was afraid to try, I am now finding that I can handle quite easily. What was reality many years ago, and enough to hold me back, is now barely enough to slow me down.

What has changed? Has reality changed?

Not really.

But I have changed.

I have grown.

I am stronger. I am wiser. And the things that held me back will no longer hold me down.

False Evidence Appearing Real.

I think I'm starting to get it. And as I get it, I can overcome it.