Anger Punishes

"You will not be punished for your anger. You will be punished by your anger"  Buddha

Anger's an acceptable emotion for some in early recovery. It sends a clear message that pushes others away. At the same time it raises blood pressure, creates stress and turmoil, and halts effective communication. Carried to an extreme it may result in violence.

In the early days so many TLC clients were angry we started an anger management class for newcomers. Clients don't move to the next level until they complete the class.

The Buddha was correct when he said we're punished not for our anger, but by our anger. I've never seen a good outcome when one becomes angry. Even though it's a common weapon in the arsenal of those who've been locked up or who've lived in the streets.

A more effective tool in dealing with others is kindness and compassion. Yes, once in a while someone might think I'm a chump or a pushover because I'm nice. But who cares? Never once have I gotten in trouble by being kind or compassionate.

My experience is that kindness and compassion in place of anger results in good karma.