Anger and Conflict

"In a controversy, the instant we feel anger we have already ceased striving for the truth, and have begun striving for ourselves." ~ Buddha

Anger is a function of the ego, arising when our circumstances clash with our inner desires or expectations. In truth, the situation is the situation; neither good nor bad. It simply is what it is. Anger arises from the inside out, a reaction of our ego's inability to accept reality--almost like a mild form of insanity. It may be a natural human emotion, but that does not make it "good." Anger is a symptom of a problem, an indicator that something is obstructing the wisdom within us.

To some extent, anger can be turned to our benefit; to alert us to a problem, and guide us towards growth. It is a warning signal that we have lost our patience, and perspective. With practice, and awareness, one may learn to recognize the warnings, and quickly release anger. Most people, however, allow themselves to be driven by their anger.

Action motivated by anger usually results in suffering. There may be some instances where anger seems justified, and may even help preserve one's life (in a life-or-death, self-defense situation, for example). These instances are rare, however, and even then...anger is something one does to oneself. It is vitally important to understand this. Using anger as a weapon is like lighting a stick of dynamite and running towards your enemy. You may hurt your opponent, but no more than you damage yourself.

It is far better to enter into a situation fully awake, centered, and unaffected by anger. In this way, we can choose our battles carefully. We can walk away when there is no need to fight. And when, through wisdom and clarity, we find sound reason to enter the fray, we can devote 100% of ourselves to the battle, ending it quickly and with minimal suffering. Then we are practicing compassion not only for others, but for ourselves, as well.

~ Heather Haze