Soulful Connections: Transcending Negativity (a remedy for anger):
Anger does not tend toward righteousness. Rather, frustration, irritation, and resentment can potentially lead to a negative attitude toward others. Even in the moment, when trying to do our best, perhaps, if there is a “bitter root,” below are awareness, it may manifest in a tangible way, towards another, whom we would rather show compassion toward, if we were only able to do so.
Hopefully, this is not the norm, rather, the exception to our behavior; yet, speaking for myself, even once when the potential for me to do good, through kindness or consideration is thwarted by my own negativity, this, in and of itself is disappointing. What may be the solution, in order to transcend these underlying psychological rifts, that prevent the righteousness ascribed to those who do not let negative feelings get in the way of doing good?
You may relate to this or not; if you do, hearken to words that are not my own, “Tremble, and sin not” (Psalms 4:5, JPS 1917 Tanach). The Hebrew word, ragaz, translated here as “tremble, connotes the physiological signs of anger, that are experienced within oneself, for example, a vibration in the chest, denoting the precursor to anger expressed, if not placed in check. And, this is the key point to be made here. We may experience anger, first, noticing its onset; yet, we do not have to give in to its destructiveness. “Tremble, and sin not.”
Thus, we can manage anger by becoming more aware of its visceral manifestation in the body; and, remaining steadfast in the prevention of that feeling of anger taking sway in our words, or behavior. Even so, the underlying causes must be sought out, uncovered, and brought to the forefront of the mind’s attention, so that the soul may deal properly, working through those issues. This can be done by trying to gain personal insight into the issue(s).
Yet, over time, the more anger is stopped in its track, and we act in the opposite manner, through a kind or considerate word or act, it is as if we are pulling out the rug from underneath our negativity. So, remain true to the vision of transcendent righteousness, by enacting a countermeasure, as often as possible against one’s inclination to act in a negative way.
Breathing Room 