Doug and Debbie Downer

When we’re in a bad mood everyone around us tends to suffer. There isn’t a real explanation as to where bad moods are born but everyone is susceptible to them. When we’re in a bad mood we become intrinsically self-absorbed, irritable, overly sensitive and begin to take almost anything personally.

When we allow bad moods to settle in we become disconnected from life’s affirming elements: PATIENCE, TOLERANCE, HOPE, KINDNESS and JOY. Without any one of these key elements we are subject to suffering but without all of them, we are lost. Moods are contagious; they can serve as spirit elevators or suppressors. We may not have the ultimate power to determine someone else’s mood, but we certainly have the power to influence others.

The best way to behave if you find yourself in a bad mood is to repeat aloud, “This mood shall pass.” Resist the urge to project negativity and apologize when your suffering isn’t contained. Try to reconnect with one or more of life’s affirming elements and breath. This too shall pass.