Anger – the universal problem…from time immemorial…the world over
– children, youngsters, adults, even spiritual seekers
suffer from it.
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, which we later regret.
…It reduces our efficiency and effectiveness.
Superficially we say, “Anger is bad, it makes one suffer; does not help”.
We are not committed to its removal.
We can get rid of it only when our understanding is deep and intense.
Why should we carry something with us that is destructive and causes misery?
Drop it, why keep it?
For example…you are about to drink a glass of milk…
…as you lift it to your lips…before the first sip…someone says it has poison.
…How do you react?
Will you not instantly get rid of the milk?
When we deeply understand the harm anger does, and also develop value for a peaceful mind, we will instantly drop it.
Why do we get angry?
WE get ANGRY WHEN:
…the ego is hurt,
…desires obstructed,
…expectations not fulfilled
In fact, when the ego is pricked,
we should be thankful for being shown our place in the world.
When we are unable to fulfill expectations we have from ourselves,
how can we expect the same from others?
No emotion is good or bad by itself.
Anger is bad when:
- it is for selfish reasons,
- it is uncontrolled
- it enslaves us.
In such situations we should elevate and divinize our emotions.
Instead of being angry when our selfish wishes are not fulfilled…
Channelize anger…direct it against:
- injustices in society,
- unrighteousness
- untruth
It will serve a greater purpose.
Take the case of Lakshmana…
He got angry only when someone insulted Sri Rama.
At other times his anger was well under control.
A single gesture from Sri Rama and he was instantly calm.
If at all we have to be angry then we should redirect our anger from the world towards the Lord.
Divinise anger and gain peace of mind.
Swami Tejomayananda is the Global Head of Chinmaya Mission.