Emotions monitor our basic needs, telling us of a need, loss or satiation. They also give us the energy to act.
1. Anger - is an energy that gives us strength.
2. Sadness - is an energy we discharge over the losses to our basic needs. We are to integrate the shock of those losses and adapt to reality. We avoid the pain of sadness, but discharging it releases some energy involved in our emotional pain.
3. Fear - releases an energy that warns us of danger to our basic needs. This leads to our discernment and wisdom.
4. Guilt - is a former conscience that tells us we have transgressed our values and moves us to take action to change.
5. Shame - warns us not to try to be more or less than human. It reminds us of our essential limitations.
6. Joy - is an exhilarating energy that emerges when all our nees are being met. It signals all is well and we want to sing, run, and jump.
John Predmore, S.J., is a USA East Province Jesuit and was the pastor of Jordan's English language parish. He teaches art and directs BC High's adult spiritual formation programs. Formerly a retreat director in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Ignatian Spirituality is given through guided meditations, weekend-, 8-day, and 30-day Retreats based on The Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Ignatian Spirituality serves the contemporary world as people strive to develop a friendship with God.
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