WERE there instances when you realized that you could have said or done something foolish and regrettable if you had given vent to your anger? Thank Heavens, you didn’t! While it is true that anger is a natural emotion, it is also – as wise people say, “only one letter away from danger”.
We have heard of several accounts of rage road incidents and other anger-related stories. One thing is for sure: there will always be things that will annoy us, irritate us, and pester us as long as we live. So, what should we do?
Our best defense is prayer. Pray that God will keep us calm amidst any situation. If we do not keep ourselves composed, we will not be able to think and react wisely – so this could mean double the hassle. Any undesirable situation might just worsen, and nobody wins.
Notice that people will form the so-called “bulong brigade”. One or two persons will convince you that things can be settled peacefully and amicably. There are also those who will tell you things that will even intensify your anger. They will “feed the monster in you”. Do you think it is wise to listen to the latter?
Choose to respond in the most peaceful manner. (“Blessed are the peacemakers!”) Your peace advisers will tell you that you do not have to respond right away. “A fool utters all his mind, but a wise man keeps it in till afterwards” (Proverbs 29:11). Refrain from saying anything when you are at the height of your emotion. I don’t mean literally keeping quiet and not expressing yourself. That’s not healthy. Choose kind and wise friends who will listen to your concerns.
Never allow hurts and bitterness to give rise to a monster.
It’s easy to lose your self-control, but what will you get from that – years of regret and despair? If you are mindful of the consequence of your actions, it will be easy to do everything in your power to keep calm when the situation calls for it.
“Blessed are the peacemakers”! Agree or disagree?
Marilyn Arayata: inspirational author, columnist and speaker, your partner in preventing bullying, depression and suicide. E-mail [email protected]. Like the Hope Boosters Facebook Page for nuggets of hope and inspiration.