Emotions are like people.  They like to be acknowledged and accepted without conditions.  If we deny or suppress our emotions, they do not simply disappear.  Instead, they continue to live within us until something triggers their return.

For instance, sadness may spontaneously emerge when a certain song is played on the radio.  Anger may arise when a dramatic scene is played out on television or real life.  Processing emotions as they arise is vital to on-going wellness.  Mindfulness allows us to acknowledge and accept all of our emotions as they happen and choose healthy, adaptive responses.