“If there is no night, how can there be day?” one of the monks once asked me. Anger is a part of life. As is jealousy, sadness, rivalry, shame, disappointment.

You won’t rid your life of pain or suffering. Negative experiences are a part of it all. What you do during these moments is what matters.

You don’t have to become slave to your emotions; in fact, you can use them to your benefit. I’ve cleaned houses while pissed, written posts while upset, painted landscapes while pining over a lover.

When you focus on the less-than-desirable moments, you give them greater importance in your life. By accepting and easing into these experiences, their effects are diminished.

The highs and lows will even out. In the meantime, use each to your benefit.