What other purpose do we have in life other than to experience joy? It is the end-all goal of every truly great person. Even Buddhism describes Nirvana as bliss; Brahman as a special connectivity. Perhaps Taoism has it best: joy is all around us if we can find it. What, then, is the purpose of other emotions? Are they obstacles to prove we are worthy of joy? A reflection of our joy? A comparative base to make us see how special joy can be?

Yes.

Some emotions blind us. Hatred, certainly. What else can steal reason so quickly? Lust, too, can blind; joy that lacks thought is a hollow substitute. Why, then, are these emotions so much easier to reach?

For a long time I had gone out of my way to control my emotions. In doing so, I had dulled myself. I realized the key is not to ignore what you feel, or attempt to direct it forcefully. Experience and revel in the good, work to better yourself and your soul. Don’t become blind and stop feeling altogether. Experience is what makes you who you are, shapes your consciousness. Don’t let yourself not experience others.