Raising up feelings

Abstract

Emotions and feelings are an important way of contacting with oneself, with God and with other people. Emotions are a psychological "thermometer" that informs us about our existential situation and interpersonal relations. What we are experiencing is not only a source of information for us, but also mobilises us to do what brings joy and to change what brings harm and suffering. Non-mature people try to escape from painful emotions or give in to them. A mature man is aware of his experiences - even the most disturbing ones - but he does not give up or is not guided by them. He treats emotions as a starting point for reflection on his own life and behaviour. The model of emotional maturity is Christ. He was experiencing diverse emotions and feelings, but he was not guided by them. For a Christian, the criterion of conduct is the will of God, the Decalogue and conscience, not feelings or emotions.