Need some reassurance

Hello Everyone, I really need to talk and since my hubby is in bed, I'll talk here. I have 2 very big issues on my mind right now. I happen to live in Birmingham AL. For those who do not know it is a very, uumm violatile town. There are always things going on that I don't approve of. Well, today was just very stressful. We got word about 1:30 that there had been 3 Birmingham police officers shot and killed in the line of duty, well, we have friends that are on the force. Thanks be to God they are OK but one of them was the 3rd car on the scene and he is not doing well. We also have a BIG music festival coming up this weekend with Lynrd Skynard and Kid Rock on the same night. My fear of crowds is preventing me from going but I am terrified for my husband to go. We are with a civic organization that sells beer and I am horrible afraid (thanks to dear hubby planting the seed) that there will be a riot. I know I am being unreasonable but I swear I am almost frozen with fear. Next issue...I work for a large telecommunications company and am Union. I have never been Union before this job. Our contract expires in 52 days. I am horribly afraid that we are going to go on strike and be out for 3 or 4 weeks which would be horrible for our finances. What is wrong with me. Why am I all of a sudden so edgy and scared. I was taken off of my depression and anixety medicine for surgery and haven't been back on it since it makes me VERY sick. I'm at a loss... Thanks for reading. Noelle

Noelle, What tragic news. My heart goes out to the families of the officers, what a terrible loss. Fear can do so many things in our lives and can be so controlling. At times it makes the decisions/judgements for us. I found this to be true earlier in my WLS journey. After reading the book, Who Moved my Cheese I put these 3 mantras on my computer monitor and read them each day: When I move beyond my fear, I feel free. What would I do if I weren't afraid? If I do not change, I can become extinct. They really have helped me especially the 2nd one which is my favorite. I am sure the police/security will be on high alert status for the concerts. Remember they are trained to watch for incidents/people that could trigger problems. I'm sure your husband will be fine. Have you talked to your surgeon/doctor about putting you back on some type of meds for depression/anxiety? There are so many different ones, there should be some that would work for you now. Being off the meds could be the reason you are going thru so much fear/anxiety right now. I understand your concern about being on strike. My husband was laid off work in April. It has been a very trying time, but we are trying to remain optomistic that he will find work. I've always believed that when one door closes another opens to something better. Wishing you the best. Sending you lots of positive thoughts. Mary

Noelle, I hope today finds you feeling better. I suppose your town is in the midst of the music festival now. I pray that all goes well. I do think that the large majority of the people there will be there to enjoy themselves and not create problems. I know the police will be on high alert becasue of the tragic shootings earlier. I hope that your union does not go on strike at the end of the contract. Just know that you are in my prayers! Liz