How should we deal with anger? - Don't Be A Wage Slave

“I would strike you if I were not angry!” is a quote from Seneca attributed to Socrates’ thinking. (1) Anger is an emotion that comes to all of us. That said, how we control it is a very individual undertaking and, ultimately, a difficult journey. All one has to do is go among people in a school, shop, or office to see how many people poorly respond to wrath. The most stunning realization is that anger is far more pernicious to the bearer than it is to the receiver.

Yes, anger kills, but firstly, it kills you! Its toxins gush through your system, inviting heart disease, cancer, and other horrible maladies. Think of the most peaceful person you know, your mother, for example. She is usually long-living and happy. Why? This is because circumstances do not frustrate her. She deals with conflict logically and lovingly. Our mater can certainly be our guide when it comes to lessening the impact of this sentiment.

So, how does one control anger? Rage can be broadly broken into two torrents: The first is immediate and potentially the most dangerous. We are faced with a situation wherein somebody confronts or insults us: the dismissive clerk or arrogant driver. When we are slapped, we want to slap back. A physical sensation washes over us — prickling the tips of our fingers, wetting the palms of our hands, and pushing heat upon our face. The second type of anger is deep-seated and long-term. It remains like a block in our hearts. We perhaps have experienced a deep affront to our character; someone has taken our dignity away and left us feeling slighted and somewhat embarrassed.

We can usually disperse a sudden feeling of anger rather quickly. This can be dealt with through self-control and continuous practice. One only has to turn to the doctor or policeman who knows how to deal with and mitigate a potentially lethal situation. (2) Many dramatic examples show that I can control any immediate situation. The latter type of anger is far more destructive and self-harming, however. Its mitigation requires introspection and forgiveness.

The solution is to finally put everything in perspective. As long as you are alive and have consciousness, all can be fixed and resolved — to the best of your ability. (3) Peace and mental contentment produce a joyous life. In business and life, a verbal assault on a subordinate may seem to display one’s power, but it is not constructive and does not further the aims of the company or the individual. (4) Do not strike is the evident solution, both physically and spiritually. Go forward, be in peace!

Mark Twain leaves us with a thought: Anger is an acid that can do far more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured. (5)

A closing thought: I am not a coward, nor are you. We have been educated, nonetheless, to use our words over our fists. We truly need not fear the blows of our opponents. Bruises will heal. We must be aware of their words. These are far more damaging and hurtful for our minds continue to incessantly inflict the abuse. It is important to remember that you are not responsible for the behavior of others.

To sum up: This week, we spoke about anger.

It’s all about perception: Sherlock Holmes (6) and Dr. Watson went on a camping trip. After a good meal, they lay down for the night and went to sleep. Some hours later, Holmes awoke and nudged his faithful friend. Holmes said: “Watson, look up and tell me what you see”.
Watson continued, “I see a fantastic panorama of countless stars.”
Holmes: “And what does that tell you?”
Watson pondered for a moment: “Astronomically, it tells me that there are millions of galaxies and potentially billions of planets. Astrologically, I observe that Saturn is in Leo. Horologically, I deduce that the time is approximately a quarter past three. Theologically, I can see that God is all-powerful and that we are small and insignificant. Meteorologically, I suspect that we will have a beautiful day tomorrow.”
“Why? – What does it tell you, Holmes?”
Holmes was silent for a moment, then spoke: “My good Watson … someone has stolen our tent.”

Just for fun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TQkf2d1EaTo&t=1167s&ab_channel=ClassicalTunes

For reflection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yh1-y3TzSO4&ab_channel=TimFerriss

This week, on your thoughtful walk, please reflect on how you manage anger in your life.

Every day, look for something magical and beautiful.

Don’t be a wage slave – critical thinking is great!

Quote: Wrath is not an emotion that I want to be a part of my life.

Footnotes:

1) Seneca, On Anger ( De Ira) Book I, Chapter 15

2) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4qsfBCatgX8&ab_channel=Dr.ChristianConte

3) https://www.hazeldenbettyford.org/articles/making-amends-addiction-recovery

4) https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/anger-tool-business-world-frank-gilbert/

5) This quote is also attributed to Seneca, but its origin is not fully known.