How can we separate ourselves from toxic emotions?
There is a story from Greek mythology about the difference between two characters named Ulysses and Orpheus who both travel by a place called the Isle of Sirens. Sirens were ethereal female characters with hypnotizing voices which in Greek culture would’ve represented “temptation.” One of the heroes of the story, Ulysses, is so terrified of being lured into their trap that he has himself tied to the mast of the ship and his ears stuffed with wax so that he doesn’t hear their tempting songs. Orpheus, another Greek hero who was also a fabulous musician, however, resisted the Sirens by sitting on the deck of his boat and playing his own music, which was actually superior to the music of the Sirens.
This story represents the difference between negative and positive goodness.
Only by having stronger passions do weaker ones vanish.
Grace drives out shame.
Love casts out fear.
Healthy, God-centered self-acceptance drives out pride and envy. Forgiveness eliminates resentment.
