Equanimity is one of the main goals of most spiritual practices as well as philosophical approaches to life. Another word for equanimity, which, at least for me, is easier to intuitively know and understand, is composure.
We can always choose how to react (compose our thoughts, words and actions) and how to proact (compose our bodies by eating, breath, posture, activity; compose our minds by reading, feeling, listening, watching, observing; and to an extent, we can even compose our environments by respecting, protecting, building, cleansing, cherishing, nourishing). Thus, we can always choose who we are; and we can change that choice in an instant. You may have been angry 2 seconds ago, that does not mean you have to stay angry now. You may have been an egotistical, self-indulgent brat a week ago, that does not mean you have to be one now.
Of course, there are times when we feel as if we have no control, as if we were just mere passengers riding the waves of the sea of life. Then, simple mantras reminding us of who's in charge can come in handy.
This one is mine. You can have it as well.
