I now release . my fear of being abandoned and alone . my selfdefeating , selfpunishing tendencies . all feelings of dread about the future . feeling persecuted , trapped , and desperate . overreacting and exaggerating my problems . taking out my fears and anxieties on others . being suspicious of others and thinking the worst of them . feeling inferior and incapable of functioning on my own . feeling cowardly and unsure of myself . acting tough to disguise my insecurities . my fear and dislike of those who are different from me . blaming others for my own problems and mistakes . being evasive and defensive with those who need me . my tendency to be negative and complaining . my fear of taking responsibility for my mistakes . I now affirm . that I am independent and capable . that I can keep my own identity in groups and in relationships . that I have faith in myself , my talents , and my future . that I meet difficulties with calmness and confidence . that I am secure and able to make the best of whatever comes my way . the kinship I have with every human being . that I am understanding and generous to all who need me . that I find true authority within me .