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How do I overcome feelings of anger?

by Mrs. Sara Esther Crispe

  

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Anger is usually the result of feeling out of control and is often driven by ego. As long as we feel that we rule this world, it is easy to become angry when things don’t go our way. However, when we realize that there is a Creator who is behind everything, and that everything happens for a reason, then there is really no need to become angry. Simultaneously, we should not just sit back and allow things to happen, but rather we must try to understand what the purpose or lesson may have been from a particular situation. It is not fair to expect that one will be happy or joyous with how everything turns out, but ideally, one will understand that there is something to be learned and gained from all outcomes, even when there are not the results we would have chosen.

Anger implies a harsh reaction, one in which we experience animosity or other very negative reactions. This is completely inappropriate if we understand that what is happening to us has meaning that we perhaps don’t see or don’t understand. There is a huge difference between feeling confused or frustrated and being angry. Anger also implies that we are angry with another person. This would mean that someone else is responsible for the outcome or the cause of our dissatisfaction. However, when recognizing that the other does not determine what happens, but that G-d controls this world, then anger is really an escape from the real work, which is figuring out what can be done in the future for a different and more pleasing end result.


Also see Why is anger—a seemingly natural feeling—so anathema in the eyes of G-d??


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