I had a customer provoke a "fight or flight" response I haven't had in years. He didn't do it purposely as it was just a "Thank you very much." pat on the arm. But because it was unseen and unexpected, I nearly jammed my elbow into the man's face in panic.
To the man's credit, he realized what happened and apologized profusely. I accepted (and apologized myself), as it wasn't intentional, but my nerves were shot for the rest of the day. They're still a bit shot today. It's been 5+ years since I've had that reaction and I'm nervous about my job. My boss has been good to me, but if she chooses to believe I nearly attacked someone for no good reason...
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"I must not fear.
Fear is the mind-killer.
Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration.
I will face my fear.
I will permit it to pass over me and through me.
And when it has gone past, I will turn the inner eye to see its path.
Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain."
-Litany Against Fear (Dune)
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