Have you ever found yourself blaming others when you get upset or overreact? It’s easy to point fingers and put the responsibility on someone else for our actions. We’ve all been there – swearing, getting angry, and venting our frustration in ways that are not healthy.
I’ve witnessed people so consumed by their anger that they shake, scream, sweat, and swear uncontrollably. It’s as if they’re about to burst at any moment, and all you can do is urge them to take a deep breath and calm down. Some people even resort to physical violence – throwing things, smashing objects, punching, beating, slapping, kicking, and slamming doors. But what good does it do?
Anger is a destructive emotion that can harm not only ourselves, but also those around us. The fruits of the spirit, including patience, are essential to cultivate. Getting angry can lead to disastrous consequences, such as high blood pressure, heart attacks, or even aneurysms from uncontrollable fits of rage. It can also result in seriously injuring or mistakenly killing someone.
But here’s the thing – no one makes you angry but you. Allow me to illustrate: Suppose a friend playfully slaps you on the head, and you react with a smile and a laugh. In that case, you’ll exchange pleasantries and continue the conversation. On the other hand, if a stranger does the same thing, you’ll probably react by hitting them twice as hard, becoming angry and aggressive.
The same action caused two different reactions because YOU CHOOSE HOW YOU REACT. You were happy when your friend slapped you, but you became angry when a stranger did it. The point is that we always have a choice in how we react to a situation.
So the next time someone rubs you the wrong way – whether it’s your child, spouse, friend, or parent – take a deep breath, keep your composure, and think before reacting. You have the power to choose your response. Remember, NO ONE MAKES YOU ANGRY BUT YOU.
Good morning!