Mastering Your Emotions
“To be elated at success and disappointed at failure is to be a child of circumstances. How can such a one be called a master of himself?” ~Chinese Proverb
It is usual that in times of success, we are happy and in times of failure, a natural reaction is that of disappointment and gloom.
However, this pulls us into an emotional ride—a roller coaster of sorts, if you may. Excessive elation or unhappiness suck the energies out of us.
Life itself is a living entity. Just like a tide, it goes though regular ebbs and flows. Nothing is static or constant in life. Life is movement. We are movement.
To expect happiness or success all the times is like asking the learning experience to halt. But will this benefit us? I think not.
Does ebb of success affect you badly? Would you rather prefer to be flooded with happiness? If you really think about it, a flood is not as attractive as it appears at first.
Therefore, let’s try to remain content in the present situation. This presence and contentment will help us to remove any childish mood swings, which are a barrier to our growth.
Quit thinking about bills at the start of the month. Give up your concerns about how you’d live ten years from now. Just allow life one moment at a time.
Are you driven by external situations? Can events turn you “on” and shut you “down”? Do you allow circumstances to enjoy that much power over you? Do you entertain the ebb and flow of life too seriously?
If so, stop right now because it is your ego-self who’s doing the worrying. It is not easy but it is not impossible either. Try keeping your focus on the present moment and stop worrying about what may come tomorrow.
And when the moment of perceived despair finally arrives, you will have everything necessary to deal with it. Your mind will then become “observed,” as Ekchart Tolle puts it, with you being the observer.
Therefore, if you feel happy, be so. If you feel gloomy, be so too. In reality, it’s your ego going through the feelings.
Observe the thoughts and feelings and do not fight them. By becoming the observer, you will find that you are less reactive to external situations. This will bring a certain peace and clarity to your life.
-Tina Su
Photo by Yafüt™
Do you have a comment? We'd love to hear what you think!
Do you have a question that we haven’t answered yet in About SAM-e? If so, please Ask Us a Question.
Comment Policy
We value your comment. Please see our comment policy for more details on our guidelines for commenting.
Comments
Amy Beverley Wednesday, April 06, 2011
I just started taking Sam-e. I know the box says it takes 7 - 14 days for the full effect but but from the first day I started the Sam-e I can see a huge difference in my mood. I have been on medication for my emotions for years and nothing has REALLY helped much. I finally decided I didn't want to take prescriptions anymore. I stopped them but over time could feel the same "down in dumps" feeling come back. That is not me. I am a very positive person. My father and sister have been telling me about Sam-e for years. I finally decided to try it, and wow, am I glad I did. My husband even comments on how happy I am! I LOVE Sam-e!! I told my husband that we must keep the house stocked and I have to tell everyone how absolutely wonderful Sam-e has made me feel. I feel like myself again. Thank you!!