“There are only two emotions: love and fear. All positive emotions come from love, all negative emotions come from fear. Love gives rise to happiness, contentment, peace, and joy. Fear gives rise to anger, hatred, anxiety, and guilt. Indeed, there are only two basic emotions: love and fear. But it would be more accurate to say that there is only one or the other, because we cannot feel these two emotions at the same time. They are opposites. When we are fearful, we are not in love. When we are in love, we cannot be in fear.” — Elisabeth Kubler-Ross
Humans are capable of experiencing a wide range of emotions, from happiness and contentment to sadness and anger. Emotions are complex and nuanced, but like Kubler-Ross, I believe that human emotions can be reduced to two basic motivations: love and fear. Knowing the difference between love and fear can help us make better use of these two powerful emotions, both of which can profoundly impact our lives and how we interact with others.
When we are moved by love, we show compassion, understanding, generosity, and kindness. When we act from love, we desire to build relationships, understand others, and improve the world around us. Love is an all-encompassing emotion that paves the way for new adventures and fosters a sense of community and belonging. There is no relationship, romantic, platonic, or otherwise, that does not benefit from love.
On the other hand, when we act from fear, we act from a place of worry, inadequacy, and uncertainty. Actions that come from fear are driven by the need to protect ourselves from potential pain. Fear can be a powerful motivator, but it can also be a limiting factor that stops us from trying new things and broadening our horizons.
Love and fear are strong emotions, but they have very diverse effects on people. When we are motivated by love, we are more likely to make decisions that are in line with our values and move closer to our goals. Feelings of happiness, gratitude, and satisfaction are more likely to fill our hearts. Fear can cause us to make decisions that prevent us from realizing our greatest potential. So can negative emotions such as criticism, anger, resentment, and jealousy.
So how do we overcome fear and learn to act from a place of love instead? One way is to adopt a more introspective and thoughtful perspective. Recognizing when you are reacting from a place of fear and actively working to overcome that emotion so you can act from a place of love and compassion instead. Meditation, physical activity, and spending time in nature are all great forms of self-care that can help you feel more grounded and at ease.
I watched the Tennessee legislature yesterday and saw three Democrats being removed from their committees for violating decorum. Two black men were removed, but the white woman was not. I listened to every word they spoke, with the intention of asking if their words came from fear or love. Sadly, I witnessed what I perceived as fear.
Yesterday I posted a provocative post on FB of the beautiful transgender Dylan Mulvaney drinking Bud Light beer. A few days ago Kid Rock shot a can of Bud Light beer because Anheuser-Busch has partnered with Mulvaney in marketing. Now country music stars and others have spoken out and want to boycott this beer company. My post has resulted in several friends and family members voicing their hatred and contempt for my soul sister.
The hate and disdain for my post undoubtedly comes from fear. Fear that the God they have been taught will punish them and others in hell. Fear of people who are different than what they are comfortable with. One member of my family equated transgender people with people who commit murder and other biblical sins.
I thank my Creator that the fear I grew up with has been removed from my heart and mind, that perhaps one day we can all learn to turn away from the fear that creates such division and hatred.
Whether we act out of love or fear is a personal choice. Choosing to act out of love will create a life that is richer in every way. Inspiring others to follow our lead can have a domino effect on society and the world at large. The next time you are faced with a choice or challenge, ask yourself if you are motivated by love or fear. The answer may shock you, but it could be the key to realizing your greatest potential.
Light, love, peace and prayers
Catherine Valliere
ahhonamaste@gmail.com
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Disclaimer:
A'ho Namaste creates Peace Movement content and this information is not provided by medical professionals and is for educational and informational purposes only. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding mental or physical issues. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read.
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