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”
Fragrances that only capture pleasant scents lack appeal. A combination of bad scents is necessary to create a pleasing aroma. Just having good elements doesn’t ensure quality, and similarly, having bad elements isn’t necessarily negative. This concept is referred to as “bistability.” Emotions operate comparably. If you laugh in any situation, people may perceive you as a psychopath. On the other hand, being treated as depressed when feeling down is common too. Yet, when the contrast between mania and depression is too pronounced, mental health suffers. It’s essential to develop both positive and negative emotions. Like a beautiful landscape where good and bad elements coexist and balance one another, emotions should reflect a similar harmony. - Joseph’s “just my thoughts”