I read a quote this morning, in a newsletter I generally enjoy, that just made me instantly sad:
“Those who control their passions do so because their passions are weak enough to be controlled.”—William Blake
I know too many people who’ve hurt those close to them, who’ve regretted the results of believing that something was okay not to control because they were “passionate” about it.
Passion does not excuse hurtful words spoken without thought or kindness.
Passion does not excuse crime, either. (Crimes of passion, anyone?)
No, those who control their passions do not have “weak” passions. Some of the most self-controlled, thoughtful people I know are more passionate that anyone might believe without knowing them well.
“Stop allowing your mind to be a slave, to be jerked about by selfish impulses, to kick against fate and the present, and to mistrust the future.”—Marcus Aurelius
It requires strength and self-discipline. And it scares me to think some are teaching our children (and our adults) that if we control our passions, we must have weak passions! Or be weak ourselves…
“A harmless man is not a good man. A good man is a very, very dangerous man who has that under voluntary control.”—Jordan B. Petersen
If you’re tempted to believe that strong passion, strong emotion justifies not being controlled please stop right now and read Discipline Equals Freedom by Jocko Willinck followed immediately by 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos by Jordan B. Petersen.
And know that the passion never justifies a lack of control. Yes, it takes intention, practice and discipline to control our emotions and passions (especially the strong ones), but it’s beyond worthwhile to develop self-control if you want to live a life of virtue and look in the mirror every day knowing you’re becoming the best version of yourself.
Really love you challenging harnessing your passion and driving it intentionally as being a strength and not a weakness. I think in harnessing it you absolutely make it more impactful and purposeful. Your words matter and thank you for taking is often seen as "masculine" and making it tangible for everyone - whether or not they lean into their masculine energy more.