For me, it's the slow release of my ego and certain belief systems that I identify with that give me comfort and an identity, and it's scary to let go of that.

I feel especially vulnerable when I know I've let the reactive ego take control of my actions and it may have had hurtful implications with someone I love. I feel vulnerable when I don't listen to my conscience.

I try not to think in terms of good and bad but more in terms of helpful or unhelpful in regards to specific moral codes and goals.

I try to remember the things that keep me peaceful, happy, and compassionate. I constantly write notes on my phone about little discoveries I make in terms of perspective and habitual thought patterns. My memory seems to let me down, so this really helps me.

I try to make sure I have a helpful perspective so when emotional pain comes up, it doesn't get out of hand.

Sometimes we can't help the way we feel, but we can mostly choose how we respond to it.

Passion overcomes obstacles.