Are you triggered?

Let's define the modern use of "trigger"

A topic, phrase or word that emotionally sets someone off. Could refer to anger, or reliving a traumatic experience. Sometimes this is logical, other times it seems like an attention grab

(Pulled off a google search)

First, I must say, most everyone has something they get "triggered" about. It's likely for a good reason too. 

If you have been through something traumatic, extremely stressful, and/or have emotional problems, you know what I'm talking about. 

• And don't go saying "My situations wasn't as bad as _____." because not as bad as doesn't mean not bad. 

See, what matters isn't that people are considerate enough to walk on eggshells around us and not break anything - it's that we realize we are already broken people, and that we learn how to go through life without falling apart at our weak areas. 

I've been broken by a few things, but honestly there is something that triggers me EVERY SINGLE TIME. It makes me mad, it hurts, I want to lash out at the "inconsideration" of the person and the explain why they need to not say stuff like that.... I want to curl into a ball and cry, screaming into my pillow. I've gotten anxiety attacks related to it. A day doesn't go by that thoughts about it doesn't drag me down. I'm surrounded by reminders, by possible triggers, and there is no escape.

........

How many people know what it is that bothers me so much?

• probably not a lot of people

How often do I react like I want to/feel like reacting? 

• very rarely, and usually it's the crying part sometime later when I am home alone (which doesn't happen often).

My success in not being to easily offended and broken is not due to my own amazing self control and emotional regulatory abilities. Far from it, as I have struggled with emotional problems for as long as I can remember. 

No, it isn't me. I have no self-help secret for you. 

I have God. Christ Jesus, His sweet Holy Spirit. 

When I feel that knee-jerk reaction to something said/posted online, I pray. I close my eyes right then and there, take a deep breath, and pray "Dear Lord, take this."

I can't say I instantly get over it completely, but I can say I feel a peace come over me to help me move on. 

Because, let's face it, we can't always be protected from the things that bother us.  People don't know, and if they do, they are imperfect and slip up sometimes. 

We need to extend grace to the "offender" instead of insisting they watch their every wording and activity to keep everyone feeling safe and comfortable. 

That is impossible. 

So when the "heartless" masses say something that hurts you, sets you back, etc, please think of this verse -

I Peter 5:7

Casting all your cares upon Him, for He care that for you. 

That is how we get through our troubles. 

Breathe a prayer for help. He answers every time.