I've had varied experiences with meditation... Both "good" and "bad." (Funny story: Once while meditating in my room, my cat started making a huge commotion--running around, acting crazy. Doing my best not to open my eyes, finally I had to look when it became too bothersome. A bird had somehow flown into my house. And just as I was opening my eyes, my cat leapt into the air, swiped the bird down and under the bed, where she proceeded to eat the entire thing in what seemed like less than a minute flat. How's THAT for "peaceful meditation" lol :))
Seriously tho, I do notice that when I meditate consistently, I am more easily able to respond rather than react, is how I like to put it.