Emotions

Jacqueline Justice

Synthesis-Composition I

Sandy Rankin

November 19, 2013

Emotions: The Dark and Light sides to People. Are They Really That Black and White?

Since the beginning of time, there has always been light and dark. Two sides that are constantly in opposition; one never completely destroying the other, but locked in an endless battle. When we think of light, we see it as a symbol of life. It is something that is sacred, sometimes holy. Light is the true symbol of goodness. Darkness, on the other hand, is seen as a symbol of wickedness and, at times, destruction. Most people see feelings like love, compassion, happiness and the desire to help others as an embodiment of the light. As a result, emotions such as envy, anger, elicit desires and hatred are all attributed with darkness. But why is it that we only attribute light to emotions like love, and darkness to emotions like hate? Is it not possible for love to be considered dark?

Some people will answer no. They see love as a way of connecting with people and beginning to truly understand them. To them, emotions like love, compassion and empathy can only lead to good things. They are the tools to bring up society as a whole. To them, love is the quality that erases prejudice and moves one to forgive, gives one peace of mind in a turbulent world and keeps one sane. Many of these beliefs come from some sort of religion. The Bible states “But love your enemies, do good to them, and tend to them without expecting to get anything in return. Then your reward will be great and you will be sons of the Most High because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.”(Luke 6:35) Those who exhibit emotions such as love and compassion, for most religions, have always been promised rewards and praise, so it is only natural for people to want to express these feelings. The Bible is a big supporter of compassion towards others and those who believe in the faith feel that by expressing these emotions in their daily...