Why not React?

If we examine ourselves in our daily lives, we notice that most of our actions tend to be reactions. Either we want for something to happen or we want for something to not happen. In other words, we are constantly pursuing our cravings and running away from our aversions. Don't believe it? Then, think of the last time you were angry, jealous, or depressed? And these are just some examples of reactions. Being angry when someone annoys you or being depressed when someone hurts you are clear indications that we are blindly reacting to the situation. It is easy to understand that we shouldn't be slaves to outside circumstances and that we should be the masters of our own happiness, but it is hard to put it in practice. Almost everyday, we encounter temptations of money, fame, power, etc. and sometimes we aren't aware of when we lose control of ourselves and start following our cravings. Meditation, then, is the process to purify and understand yourself, gain better control over oneself, and in the process experience true freedom and happiness.