Emotions are helpful when we see them as information, but they are harmful when we see them as instruction. Whenever we feel an emotion, say anger – if we let that emotion become an instruction, then that emotion can impel us towards destructive action. We may speak words that can ruin relationships in five minutes, which relationships we have cultivated over five years. But if we see the emotions as information – then anger informs us that something is seriously wrong with something that is seriously important for us. And then we can investigate and understand and then decide how to respond appropriately.

Watch this content at: Two ways to look at emotions

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18.35 And that determination which cannot go beyond dreaming, fearfulness, lamentation, moroseness and illusion – such unintelligent determination, O son of Pṛthā, is in the mode of darkness.