Anger Management

I was watching T.V. last night and the movie Anger Management with Adam Sandler came on. It's about a guy who has anger problems because he lets people walk all over him and his journey through an over-the-top anger management class.

This got me thinking about dealing with anger in constructive ways. This issue hits home because I feel like I have been dealing with a lot of anger lately. It has been difficult for me to just let things go. This has led to some relationships of mine to become strained. Now in some instances, the anger has been justified...but not all, and holding onto anger is never appropriate. So what are some ways to release this tension?

A great way I have dealt with my anger is by immersing myself into a story. It is a great way to get your mind off of a subject and onto something else so you don't end up brooding. For me, many times, this will take the form of videogame playing or reading a good book.

I will warn, however, that this can become dangerous. Make sure that you don't lose touch with reality. Sometimes, by becoming involved in a fictitious world, you can become obsessed with it and every waking moment is filled with thoughts of leveling up your character or what will happen next to the hero.

Also, you shouldn't use this method to run away from your problems. Use it to help you cool off? Sure. Use it so you don't have to deal with an unpleasantry? No.

Finally, and most importantly, is the subject of prayer and giving it over to God. This is not easy, but it is vital. Pray about your problem. Ask God for a solution and ask for wisdom in discerning how to deal with it. Also, ask God for a compassionate heart so that you might not get angry again. Don't let the sun go down on your anger...don't let it fester. Deal with the problem. You will find that you'll feel a lot better.

Have I flipped my lid?

WHAT?! HOW COULD YOU ASK SUCH A STUPID... *cough* Umm...sorry...no, I haven't.

Godspeed.

Flip