When I was drinking alcoholically, I got used to living in
anger. Anger mixed with drunkenness is a
dangerous and unhealthy place. Using untamed anger as a response to
frustration and disagreement drove me to seek vengeance and to pile up
offenses. I reaped the consequence of an evil conscience. I justified my wrongdoings. Selfishness ran the show. Little thought was
given to the feelings of others. In
sobriety, I’ve had to relearn what to do with emotions. Trained response consists of gathering
information, acquiring empathy, learning to compromise, and releasing unforgiveness.
If I’m not ready to forgive, I can still
turn it over to God. Praying, taking slow breaths, and speaking affirmations can
actually be helpful. Giving up the right
to be right is sometimes necessary. I
cannot rationalize using unbridled anger to prove my own
rightness. If I am rude and uncaring, then I’m in the wrong no
matter what. It is possible to own my feelings and choose a peaceful course of
action. It is even possible for anger to
be expressed with care, concern, and love. In order to gain freedom, I find myself returning to elementary school social
studies concepts.Yes, but they work. These things have been life-giving.
Do unto others
as you would have them
do unto you.
