There is but one thing of value — to cultivate truth and justice, and to live without anger, in the midst of lying and unjust man. — Marcus Aurelius.
Anger is an interesting emotion. Many wise philosophers counsel against anger, yet others say we must be angry at injustice and prejudice. Maybe I need to find a better word. When I played football we were taught to channel and control our anger at our opponent into making the perfect tackle or block, and to never lose our poise. As parents we are taught to control our anger at what our kids may do, and always dominate out reactions with love. Perhaps what Aurelius meant by living without anger is not to ever allow anger control our actions. I know at times I was angry at an injustice. I tried as best I could to focus that anger on changing the injustice. I can’t say that I never blew my top, I think all of us have from time to time. I guess what I am saying is it is okay from time to time to be angry, but what is more important is how we control and use that anger.
Any ideas readers?
IJesus got angry but when he did, I think we call it righteous indignation. An example is when he threw the money changers out of the temple. I have never answered or replied to your post but have done so a couple of days this week, it is not usual for me to do this, but I do want to tell you that I read the last post to to my Sunday school class and they were absolutely in tune with it. Thanks so much, Webb!
Grandfather:
A man who does not have a little bit of temper is not worth much. A man who has too much temper is not worth anything.