Mastering Our Anger
We need to master our own anger before we can help others do the same. When the
flames of anger flare up, we tend to lash out at those who have watered our seeds
of anger. It is like finding our house on fire, and instead of putting out the
flames, chasing those we think started it. Arguing with others only waters the
seeds of anger in us. When anger rises, return to yourself and use the energy of
mindfulness to embrace, soothe, and illuminate it. Do not think you will feel
better if you can make the other person suffer, too.
â€"Thich Nhat Hanh, from Teachings on Love (Parallax Press)
