Chapter 1: The Power of Emotions

Have you ever found yourself retreating to the bathroom to shed tears, feeling that your emotions unsettle those around you? Recently, I've been contemplating why my feelings seem to create discomfort, especially among the men in my life. I don't consider myself overly dramatic or emotionally unstable; I've always made an effort to manage my emotions for various reasons.

A significant insight I've gained is that emotions possess an inherent power and are not strictly good or bad. It’s essential that we stop labeling them negatively. If you're experiencing a feeling, there’s a valid cause behind it.

Furthermore, emotions are deeply tied to our intuition. Ignoring our feelings makes it challenging to access this inner guidance.

About five years ago, I made a commitment to honor my intuition, regardless of where it might lead me. Growing up in a tumultuous household, I learned to suppress my instincts. If your gut instinct warns you that a primary caregiver is a threat, what can you do? You typically learn to disregard it, which often results in further harm because your instinct can no longer alert you.

What did this commitment entail? It meant I had to stop neglecting my emotions. Initially, it was overwhelming—exacerbated by the onset of menopause shortly thereafter. However, as I gradually allowed myself to feel, my emotions became more manageable. I also started crafting a soothing tincture to aid with menopause, which contributed positively to my emotional state.

For many, emotions are unsettling because they defy control. In a world that increasingly seeks order, emotions refuse to conform.

Consider viewing emotions from another perspective: they function like physical signals, acting as early warning systems designed for your protection. They are not there to disrupt your life; rather, they signal that something is amiss.

Have you ever encountered someone who appeared pleasant, yet your intuition was sending warning bells? What if you hadn’t listened to that inner voice and entered a business—or worse, a romantic—relationship with them?

While discomfort with emotions is common, you don't have to share that sentiment. Embrace your feelings, give them space, and allow them to express themselves. This doesn’t mean using them as a justification to harm others. If your feelings become overwhelming, it's perfectly acceptable to take a step back; however, you shouldn't feel compelled to hide in a bathroom to cry.

In the past, I would conceal my emotions to avoid unsettling others. But why? Often, it was their behavior that triggered my tears. Now, instead of withdrawing, I choose to communicate with the individual who has upset me. I may still cry, but my feelings are just as valid as anyone else's. That is the essential lesson.

Numerous jokes circulate about women's emotionality, but these feelings contribute to many of us being nurturing caregivers. Hormones are not a punchline; they enable us to care for our children. When we are upset, it is vital that we express ourselves rather than retreat into solitude.

The first video titled "Do You Ever Feel Alone?" explores the sensation of isolation even in crowded spaces. It delves into the nuances of emotional experiences, encouraging viewers to confront and understand their feelings.

The second video, "Do You Ever Feel Alone" by Gentry Bronson, offers insights into the feeling of loneliness and the importance of emotional connection, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles.