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I like where Papiyon was going with his reply. I can't but help feel how this resonates with my own efforts in coming out from under my rock.
It's also encouraging to see others with like minded views.
If I could add anything to the above, it would be more about the way we approach our inner dialogue? Again Papiyon hits the nail on the head for me with with term "Embrace."
My suggestion is more like a warning ... as I found trying to take control through using mindets with words like "fight" ... not only fails, but makes the process much more conflicting. The way we approach our thoughts is crucial when it comes to "control" It's a complex affair as I know well that taking anger and turning it into something positive involved what may be termed as a fight, however I know now that it was only through acceptance, and being kind to myself that I was able to muster the will and strength. I can now grit my teeth and break the binds that would normally keep me down, but my best efforts to do so only come from my ability to embrace - not fight. Instead of control, I give in.
Learning to use words that foster and nurture the voice within, is the key to my success. I make a conscious effort not to use words that seek control or attempt to fight. Meditation is excellent for that! I used to be someone that could be found frothing at the mouth in public places as my walls often closed in. I was quite volatile and despised the human race. Now I do my best to contribute through helping others who've shared similar experiences.
I mean not to go on - other than to suggest and share what I have found has helped me. learning to "embrace" our inner dialogue and be mindful of using negative and controlling words is what has eased my pain. I still struggle with various predispositions and delayed cognitive responses ... but the peace of mind I receive through embracing has helped me to accept others as well as feel more accepted.
Edit -
this need not involve continually being in the presence of others - or even fitting in ... this goes way beyond such generalized methods of graduated exposure and or participation ... yet I do practice some of those things ... it's all about balance is all and learning to find and sit with what makes we (the individual) feels comfortable with. Does that make sense?