Heat and flames

When we face anger either within ourselves or in front of others we have two choices: We blow heat and flames and make things worse or we cut down heat and flames and make things better. Of course, it is always easier to allow one’s anger to burst forth but harder to calm oneself. If someone were angry at us, we would naturally tend to respond likewise. If they insulted us, we would insult them. If they shouted to the top of their voices, we would do the same. But, deep down, we all know that responding to anger with anger makes things far worse. Fortunately, there is a solution. Indeed, we don’t have to react impulsively by giving way to anger. We can pause for a moment, reflect and decide to calm ourselves. It’s like deciding to have a cold shower that will wash out our anger or anyone else’s. And, what is this cold shower composed of? Simple but often so hard to put into practice: A gentle, respectful approach and kind words carried out by a soft voice. Nothing else, actually!As they used to say in the old days…A soft, gentle answer turns away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger.