I was more angry than I have been in a while. The circumstances that congealed were subtle enough, but when I saw the effect I was miffed. 

 

More than likely you have a relationship with your own temper so I will spare you the details. Except for two passing comments that fell in my lap in the last week. 

 

"It's a lot of work to hate." The person speaking was describing her own path to acceptance, and why she had not kicked up a fuss over someone's behavior. 

 

The second was from a friend who is navigating choppy waters, as she decides how to respond to the choices of someone she cares for. 

 

"What I realize is how much I don't want to hurt him."

 

That brief sentence renders me silent, which is a relief after the incessant nagging that plagues me when I succumb to anger.

 

After the storm of my fury, it became obvious how exhausting it is. It helped no one... not me, nor the target of my tirade. And I faced, with grief, the fact that I had wanted to cause them pain. 

 

The next morning the gnashing thoughts were gone. I considered those two sentiments, and made a commitment to let this day be one in which I try not to injure the people I love.