Laperson, I take it that you've already read Dr. Sarno's Healing Back Pain, but if you haven't, I highly
recommend that you do. He says anger is the main cause of our TMS and we have to spend whatever time
is needed to learn what repressed emotions cause our symptoms. Some people learn their re's fast, while others
need time and journal every day. Our anger or age goes way back to our childhood, Sarno says. Something
recent may "trigger" a situation from our past.
The new baby may have triggered something in your early years.
But don't look upon TMS as enemy, but a friend, giving you pain so as to make you realize you need to
discover the reasons for your anger.
Also, I hope you can enjoy your baby. You're religious, so whether Jewish or Christian, it is God's gift to
you and your partner.
Being a parent can be a joy but also a shock to some. I never married or fathered a child, but my brother
had four and told me once they were all "accidents." He accepted them and loved them, land he and his wife
were wonderful parents, but it may have taken him a while to adjust to being a father, at least the first time.
From your posts, reading about your low self-esteem and anger, it seems to me that you need to accept
yourself more and also not worry so much. I know that's easy for someone to say, but think of it...
what can you really do about the evils and injustices of the world? Just vote out the bad ones and give
whatever money or time you can to help the needy. Donating even a few dollars to starving kids around the world can make you feel better about yourself.
And again, since you are religious, are you seeking peace through the Bible or other religious books?
In getting the most out of the TMSWiki forums, I also suggest you begin either the Structured Educational Program or Dr. Gordon's TMS Recovery Program.
You also could benefit from joining the telephone call-ins on Tuesday nights (for more on that, see my post in
the Announcements forum). The next one is January 7.
You also may be feeling angry because it's the end of the old year and you may be worrying that the new one
may be full of more worries. It may be, but we need to think positive, that 2014 is going to be one of the best years ever.
I think if you cuddle your baby and enjoy its adorable face you will find a lot more peace and a lot less anger or worry.
You're a new father. You're a very lucky man.
Happy New Year!