This is a lovely thread!
Although I don't do AVRT and am a failed AA who still goes for social reasons, I was so touched by your story and that you were actually able to see it clearly rather than pushing on to the next thing.
I do think that fighting the thoughts and emotions is pointless. For me it is simply recognizing them for what they are and that they are not necessarily truth or fact, and leaving them alone as I continue.
But when I do that, it does seem a bit like my dog's nose touching a soap bubble that goes pooof with a small splash of water.
Again ... thanks for this post as it gave me a nice closing morning moment before heading to the store!