November Joy 13: Yin and Yang

Happiness and sadness are like the Yin and Yang forces in Chinese philosophy, which are opposite but complementary…

I hope this article finds you well and happy. In continuation of the November Joy Series, I want to share with you a quote that has inspired me to live a more balanced and peaceful life. It is from Carl Jung, a famous Swiss psychiatrist and psychotherapist who founded analytical psychology. He said:

“Even a happy life cannot be without a measure of darkness, and the word happy would lose its meaning if it were not balanced by sadness. It is far better to take things as they come along with patience and equanimity.”

Yin and Yang

The quote by Carl Jung expresses the idea that happiness and sadness are not absolute or independent states but relative and interdependent ones. They are like the yin and yang forces in Chinese philosophy, which are opposite but complementary, mutually perpetuating, and constantly changing.

The quote suggests that one cannot appreciate happiness without experiencing sadness, and that one should not resist or reject sadness but accept it as a natural and inevitable part of life. It also implies that one should not seek happiness in external or superficial things but in internal or deeper ones, such as patience and equanimity. These are qualities that can help one maintain balance and harmony between the yin and yang aspects of one’s existence.

In other words, happiness is not a constant state of bliss but a dynamic and relative experience that depends on how we perceive and respond to the challenges and opportunities that life presents us.

Carl is simply saying we should not deny or avoid the negative emotions that arise from difficult situations, but rather accept them as part of the human condition and learn from them. Also, we should not let our happiness be determined by external factors, but rather cultivate an inner sense of calmness and resilience that can help us cope with whatever comes our way.

I think this quote is especially relevant in these times of uncertainty and change, when we may feel overwhelmed by the problems and pressures that we face in our personal and professional lives.

We may be tempted to seek happiness in material things, social media, or escapism, but these are only temporary and superficial solutions that can leave us feeling empty and dissatisfied. Instead, we should strive to find happiness in ourselves, in our relationships, and in our passions, and to appreciate the simple joys and blessings that we often take for granted.

I challenge you this day to reflect on this quote and apply it to your own life. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. How can I balance the light and the dark aspects of my existence?
2. How can I practise patience and equanimity in the face of adversity?
3. How can I create my own happiness from within?

I would love to hear your thoughts and insights on this topic, so feel free to reply to this newsletter or contact me through my social media channels. I’d be waiting for your feedback.

Thank you for reading, and have a wonderfully joyful day!

With ❤️,

Jaachị Anyatọnwụ