Principle 16
❖ Anger provides a contrast for serenity
The experience of serenity is made possible by the presence of emotional arousal. A person who knows the experience of anger and its mastery is in a better position to appreciate and experience the full impact of serenity and peace of mind. Opposites provide contrast.
Now I'm not suggesting that you have to get angry to know peace (like hitting your head against a wall because it feels so good to stop or asking your children to run around the house and scream because it makes the house sound quieter when they go to sleep). Yet, the stillness of the house is might be made sweeter and more noticeable by its contrast to the healthy and sometimes wild exuberance of the children who live there.
Yes, we sometimes become angry. Even so, we still endeavor to master the tidal forces of emotion that threaten to overcome us. To keep thinking in the midst of anger and to find calm despite the emotional storm that surround our hearts is a sweet success.