Do what you love!

[Matt3]

Two years ago I woke in the night thinking I was having a heart attack. I was rushed to hospital and thought I was going to die. I was sent home and told to find a cardiologist. This really freaked me out. I started to get short of breath and shakey. I eventually saw a GP who diagnosed me with PTSD and severe panic disorder. I'd never had anxiety and was fit and healthy.
WHY ME?
6 months went by without me being able to function properly and subsequently I ended up being housebound. My world was upside down. I'd lost my job, quit playing basketball and couldn't even take my kids to the park. It was totally debilitating and I felt scared and ashamed. Then one day the strangest thing happened.
It was a Thursday afternoon in January 2016 and I was at home still struggling with my breathing and trembling, despite being on new medication. I opened up my inbox on my phone and saw a story in my local newspaper about a historic Redwood forest in Warburton. The photos were magical and it was luring me to go and photograph it. I picked up my camera, jumped in my car and set off on my first photography mission since having my breakdown.
Now I didn't used to believe in spirits, ghosts, the afterlife or anything like that, but on that day in the forest I can only describe the feeling as ethereal. It was like the ancient trees were talking to me and telling me that everything would be okay. I sat and meditated for the first time ever. I must of been there, sitting in this forest for hours. When I left, something had shifted. It was like my burdens had been lifted. I started to feel better. So much so that a week later I set off on a photography road trip. It was like I finally understood that the material things in life don't bring you happiness. You must do what YOU LOVE.
I continue to heal every day. Little frustrations no longer bother me. I'm on a journey to spread love and light through my photography and my experiences. No matter how dark the world can seem, always remember that LOVE is the answer. I'm here if anyone ever needs guidance or a friend.

[Croix]

Dear Matt3~

Welcom to the forum and thank you for your most encouraging post.

I can well remember also having been down the same rout with an MRI for my heart, only to be told it was not a physical defect (mind you I found even that definitive diagnosis hard to believe at the time.)

I'm very glad that you have found something that has lifted your burdens and allowed you to live an normal life again. Doing something you love, mediation, change all play their part.

As it has been a whole year since your improvement I sincerely hope it is permanent and you continue to get joy from your photography and that you have been able to resume you family life to the full.

My best wishes

Croix

[forumprofile]

Oh Matt3, Your post is beautiful. Thank-you so much for taking the time to share this. I hope your journey continues with much joy. 🙂