Ajahn Sucitto: Q&A

(Dhamma Stream Online Sessions) Two questions about worry: Q1 Anxiety creeps in and brings imbalance and I fail to immediately recognize the signs. What can you advise? Q2 [continues] When sitting I go through the worry of being a failed mother of a grown-up child. Aversion, and craving how I'd like to see things different. I'm trying to be with these thoughts rather than in them. The inner tyrant exaggerates the situation. How do I deal with the worry? 16:47 Q3 Please explain about, and in what way, consciousness is an element. I've heard Ajahn Sumedho say it is an element. 30:34 Q4 Relationships are complicated and painful. However as my "don't take your life personally" practice goes on, it seems people around me can present problematic relationships. Another one: I've been experiencing feelings of being a misfit. Your speaking about personality as a "me bag" was illuminating and a release from taking it personally. But if I withdraw from others, I meet my inner critic and get berated for not fitting in. So I'm lost either way! Q5 38:03 I've become aware of a familiar feeling of being trapped as a result of my work situation. I can feel it and yet feel at ease at the same time. This was deeply heartening. Q5 41:02 Sometimes when you are talking there's a sharp nasal blowing sound. What's happening? It's quite jolting to the nerves as I'm listening. Also I noticed that you often laugh when things are distressing? What is this about? I don't mean to be respectful.