When ‘temperance’ driven by reason becomes excessively strict, issues of ‘sadism’ or ‘masochism’ can emerge. Temperance isn’t necessarily a positive trait. ‘Pleasure’ often plays a central role in relationships involving giving or receiving abuse. Although feelings vary among individuals, there is a connection between causing pain and deriving pleasure that satisfies the craving for pain. Some people find more satisfaction in inflicting pain, while others find fulfillment in enduring suffering. Our tendencies toward pain influence how we express our personality outwardly and how we protect ourselves inwardly. If you experience stress from ‘temperance,’ you need the right kind of experience to free yourself within healthy limits. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”
Don’t underestimate your emotions. If I leave these feelings of hate, resentment, longing, and loneliness inside me, one day they will surely take their revenge. Emotions aren’t harmful when we share them with others. Even if we can’t resolve the root cause, having a friend to share our trivial feelings with helps us endure life’s hardships. When there’s someone other than myself to whom I can devote, we can avoid the storm of emotions and overcome adversity. It’s even better if we have an equal friend to share our feelings with, someone we’re committed to. Without just this one friend, we feel sad, exhausted, and lost. The feelings I hold inside will eventually take their revenge on me. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”