I have come to realise that happiness and rage are not mutually exclusive.
Rage can be motivating. Rage can be the source of your passion. For me, I have rage about injustice. I have a rage and shame about the justice system not working, and my being part of that system.
Yet, I was searching for happiness and fulfilment by turning away from that rage that was calling me. The rage was calling me to lead the change I wanted to see.
But I couldn’t ignore the calling.
This rage is my calling, and my motivation. Leaning into the rage and realising I need to act on it, is actually what is now bringing me a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
Facing challenge, and pursuing my purpose is actually what brings me happiness.
Happiness is not peace. Happiness is facing challenges and stepping up, learning and doing what is right.
Just like peace is not the absence of conflict, but the acceptance of it.
Happiness accepts the inner rage and challenge, and doesn’t ignore it. Happiness embraces challenge, because it brings us purpose.