“Grow up, before you grow old,” is wise advice I was given when I was a lot younger.

But now as an octogenarian, I occasionally find myself in need of this same advice.

I have come to realize that emotional intelligence is an essential component of growing up and becoming a mature adult.

Perhaps you, like me, have discovered that emotions have been given to us, as have some of our best friends, but when they try to control us, they prove to be some of our worst enemies.

Also, I have found that I can only win when my rational mind, based on clear values and chosen convictions, are stronger than my emotions.

No matter what the situation, never let your emotions overpower your intelligence and clearly chosen values. 

“When our emotions dominate our minds, we often have trouble seeing things as they are,” Robert Greene. 

“Emotions are much like waves, we can’t stop them, but we can choose which ones to surf,” Jonathan Martensson.

When it comes to emotions it is important to realize that:

· Most emotions don’t last. Thus, it follows it is wise to avoid making a permanent decision while experiencing a temporary emotion. 

· Emotions are seldom a perfect representation of the truth. They often find their stimulus from a plethora of physical things such as, one’s lack of rest, what one had for dinner and the state of one’s liver, or a lack of bodily fitness.

· Injured emotions can heal. If you never take the time to heal your damaged emotions, you will tend to bleed on people who did not cut you.

· Fine music and good art are powerful communicators of uplifting emotions

· “Out of control emotions make smart people stupid,” Daniel Goleman.

· Emotional intelligence is essential in all human relationships, especially in conflict resolution, or if you desire to create a better world.

· “People who fail to use their emotional skills, are more likely to turn to other ineffective means of managing their mood. They are twice as likely to experience anxiety, depression, substance abuse and even thoughts of suicide.” Travis Bradbury.

Conversely, I believe that emotional intelligence, when drawing on rational intelligence and spiritual intelligence, that flows from a worshipful relationship with the Almighty, has power to introduce the transcendent element resulting in the supernatural transformation of your life, and of those around you.

A bi-monthly columnist for The North Coast Courier for the past 5 years DJ inspired countless readers in their walk with Jesus with his inspired words.