I was introduced to the idea of equanimity when I sat for a ten day silent meditation retreat years ago. I was much younger and interpreted the teaching as being neutral, emotionless, not feeling the highs or lows in life. I recall explaining to the teacher that I didn't want to go through life not feeling happy (the highs), and if it'd cost me sadness (the lows) at times, I'm ok with that. I don't remember the teacher’s response now, but whatever it was, I couldn't comprehend at the time.
Years later (and after much awareness and healing), I understand that to be equanimous is to have the ability to observe without being caught by what we see. To feel without being hijacked by your emotions. To respond with impartiality, rather than fear based reactions. To remain centered in the middle of whatever is happening.
"It's protection from the 'eight worldly winds': praise and blame, success and failure, pleasure and pain, fame and disrepute - each which lead to dependence on the external and suffering down the road."
This is one way I can contribute to the world. The outcome is a greater sense of peace - which enables me to be more accepting, loving, and compassionate. The world desperately needs this from all of us.