ANXIETY

 

                ANXIETY

Anxiety is defined as fear, worry, stress, uneasiness, nervousness, apprehension, concern, etc.

There was a time when the number of anxious people in any part of the world was limited.  Today it is very large. In fact we are living in the age of anxiety.

Its major symbol is loneliness due to disappearance of joint families and the emergence of nuclear families. Children after they become adults and self-dependent move out of their paternal homes. In the past, we had tribes, now we have very  small families. The result is lack of connectivity with one’s kith and kin.

Even active neighbourhood is missing.  Don’d feel shocked if you are told that  even husband and wife live like strangers under the same roof.

 Loyal friends can share each other’s anxieties. But in this age of extreme selfishness they, too, are rare or non-existent.

What is the true current situation?  The answer is :widespread anxiety. Large numbers of overstressed people, visiting doctors for anti-stress medicines, feeling the need for yoga or some form of meditation or fall to depression.

The best approach to one’s anxiety is not to let it overpower you. Keep it at bay. Trust in God. Be strong. Anxieties come and go. Adopt a healthy life style. Learn to acquire the art of self-dependence. Read some good book on living a fearless, healthy and happy life. Don’t anticipate evils, and if they come face them boldly. Control your mind which is the main source of trouble.  Love your heart; be guided by this innocent central organ for remedial action.     

Finally, here is a piece of advice by the American theologian Edwards Tyron (1809-94) . He says that Anxiety is the rust of life, destroying its brightness and weakening its power. A childlike and abiding trust in Providence is its best preventive and remedy.

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G.R.Kanwal

28 April 2024