the stoics say emotion does not wash over us…

Page 230 the stoics say emotion does not wash over us like waves on the beach. They happen for a reason. We are human after all. That initial shock is not an emotion, but it reflects, like blushing when you’re embarrassed. It becomes an emotion when you assent. We must sever the length between impression and ascent. This is where the mighty pause comes in handy. Be not swept off your feet by the vividness of the impression, but say impression, wait for me a little. Let me see what you are and what you represent. Let me try you. Only when we realize our reaction to hardship is not automatic, but a choice can we begin to make better choices.

— from The Heart in the Cockpit (Emotion/Awe/Anxiety/Regret/Empathy) · Socrates Express, In Search of Life Lessons from Dead Philosophers By Eric Weiner

In the book

Name it, then widen the gap. The instant a strong feeling hits, put a word on it — this is anger, this is fear — because naming it quiets the brain. Then use the mighty pause: do not be swept off your feet by the vividness of the impression; tell it, wait for me a little; let me see what you are. Maturity is the size of that gap. — The Heart in the Cockpit (Emotion/Awe/Anxiety/Regret/Empathy)

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