By: Swami Tejomayananda
Anger is a universal problem. What is anger? Why do we get angry? Why do we want to overcome anger? Anger is dangerous and harmful for ourselves as well as others. It makes us say and do things that we later regret. It reduces our efficiency and effectiveness.
Superficially we say, ‘Anger is bad, it makes one suffer, it does not help.’ However, we are not committed to its removal. To get rid of it, we require a deep and intense understanding. Why carry something that is destructive and causes misery? Why keep it? Suppose you are about to drink a glass of milk and someone tells you it has poison. Will you not instantly get rid of it? When we understand deeply the harm anger does; when we value a peaceful mind; we will instantly drop anger.
Why do we get angry? When the ego is hurt, desires are obstructed or expectations are not fulfilled, we become angry. In fact, when the ego is pricked, be thankful to the other person for showing us our place in the world. When we are unable to fulfill our own expectations, how can we expect the same from others? No emotion is good or bad by itself. Anger for selfish reasons is bad; when uncontrolled, it enslaves us.
In such situations, elevate and divinize the emotion. Instead of being angry when selfish wishes are not fulfilled, direct the anger towards injustices in society, unrighteousness or untruth. It will serve a greater purpose. If at all we have to be angry, then redirect the anger from the world towards the Lord. Divinize the anger and gain peace of mind.
