ROCKINGHAM – Not long ago I was talking with my oldest daughter Jessica who lives out of town. She has been a stay-at-home mom since her first baby was born six years ago; now she has two, one age six and one age four.
She had recently been invited to go on a girls’ trip with a few of her friends for the weekend, so she decided she would go. In preparing the children for her leave, she told them to think of something they wanted her to bring them back. Payton, the six-year old, figured out what she wanted several days before Jessica’s trip, but Aaron the four-year old still hadn’t mentioned anything the morning she was getting ready to leave.
While Patrick, her husband rested in the living room, Jessica asked Aaron one last time what he wanted – still no reply. She told them all goodbye as she was getting ready to walk out the front door when all of a sudden Aaron yelled, “Mama, mama I know what you can bring me back.” Jessica replied, “What do you want mama to bring you?” He stated “I want you to bring me back a baby sister!” All of a sudden Patrick yelled, “She better not come back with a baby sister!” They both got a good laugh out of that as Aaron in his innocence couldn’t figure out why his request was so funny.
Another time a friend of mine was taking a walk with a few other friends. Enjoying the beautiful weather as they both strolled along, the pet dog Bill playfully followed. Consumed in conversation, they didn’t notice a large jack rabbit until he jumped out in front of them. The dog immediately took off after the rabbit, but the rabbit got away. They continued the walk when suddenly that jack rabbit snuck up behind them, jumped back on the trail and began chasing the dog which had just chased him off. They had a good laugh as it was a sight to see the dog running from the rabbit.
Release That Anger in a Healthy Way
Anger is a natural emotion that we have all dealt with at one time or another. Although it can be physically and emotionally destructive, there is a healthy way to handle anger. It seems as if in today’s world there are people who are allowing their anger to cause harm and even death to others due to their lack of self control. There are many ways to control the emotion that can otherwise destroy.
Some of these ways are:
· When feeling angry, go for a walk or some other exercise to release the tension
· Collect your thoughts and think before you speak
· Find positive, uplifting people to surround yourself with
· Prayer
· Go to a secluded place for a timeout and take several deep breaths
· When driving, stay a safe distance from the car in front of you to prevent road rage
· Listen to soothing music
· Get rid of unforgiveness
· Professional help
There are other healthy ways to handle anger and even avoid it at times. The bible tells us to “Be angry and sin not.” Ephesians 4:26.
Take a few moments to reflect the next time you feel this emotion rising up; you will be glad you did afterwards.
