This is the fourth in a series of five posts: “Just how bad do you think you’ve got it?” – May 10, 2014 The Life Force: Use and abuse – May 17, 2014 Co-creators with God – May 24, 2014 The wandering will – Today The path of presence – June 7, 2014

Dilemma: a hammer can be used either to build a house or to destroy priceless heirlooms. Possessing the tool of emotional intelligence does not mean one will use it favorably. What makes the difference?

If you’re in a boat out on the water, and a storm comes up, and the boat’s rocking and at risk of tipping over; it’s critical to turn the boat to face into the wind. This won’t stop the wind, but will keep it from rocking the boat. Emotional intelligence is like that. It won’t make life’s storms go away, but can help keep them from rocking your boat.

Topics in this post: Rat empathy ● Secret weapon ● Marriage a “luxury good?” ● Hero of cancer research