Sadness contains an ever-present degree of depressed energy levels. I may not always acknowledge the sadness, but this lack of enthusiasm is physically and emotionally palpable. It’s a dull feeling that pervades my entire body and mind; it’s terrible as if I’ve had the top-end of my energy tank removed.
Whereas I might normally bring 100% of myself to any activity, sadness zaps 20-40% of my top end, so the best I can come up with is 60-80%, tops. I can’t compete. Even if I wanted to, I don’t have what it takes.
It can become chronic and thus a new normal. Not quite depression, similar to a low-grade depression.
Sadness precludes other emotions, such as joy, rapture, excitement, and thrill, emotions that we might prefer to enjoy at the high end of our emotional experience. I need help.
