We use feelings and emotions interchangeably.
We assume they're the same.
They're not.
They move in opposite directions.
Feelings draw us closer.
Emotions push us away.
Most of what we call "personal" is directional.
We move toward what feels whole. We move away from what feels threatening.
Before thought.
Before effort.
Before explanation.
When you see that, reactions stop feeling mysterious.
They start feeling mechanical.
Not something to fix.
Something to understand.
If that distinction feels important, start here.