[Disruptive_Dave]

Not OP, but I would hope the original comment was intended to imply that emotions should be _responded_ to (as you noted) and not _reacted_ to. Responding involves understanding, "naming your enemy," and contextual consideration. Reacting is thoughtless, immediate, animalistic.

[wintermutestwin]

Great answer! I'll post some notes I have on responding vs reacting:

Reactions limit choices. Responses give choices.

Reactions are unconscious, automatic, and based on negative emotions which stem from unmet needs. Responses are conscious, considered, and based upon the actual needs underlying the negative emotions.

Reactions often move us further away from getting our needs met. Responses usually move us towards getting our needs met.

[marcusestes]

You say thoughtless, immediate, and animalistic as if it’s a bad thing;)

Sometimes it’s exactly the right strategy for decision making and almost always for creativity and play.