Tag: growth

Anger (galit) is a primal or visceral emotion. In one way or another, emotions such as anger precede ethics and can be dangerous to oneself or to others when not controlled or used constructively. Moreover, anger communicates that boundaries exist between us and the world, and when one feels that this boundary is violated, anger is expressed imperatively. One of the dangerous kinds of anger includes anger that is directed inward, which when not expressed will eventually lead to self-destruction. Another kind is anger that is directed outward that can turn into violence and rage, which can potentially inflict pain against others. The last kind of dangerous anger is anger associated with sadness wherein one feels helpless or frustrated when something is not attained. In here there is a sense of isolation and pain due to an obstacle that cannot be removed.

However, there is a type of anger that can be turned into a virtue. Transformed anger has the capability of removing obstacles causing anger, therefore eliminating the menaces of anger. Anger can only be transformed, however, under some conditions. First, there must be real anger to begin with, and it must be recognized. If there is no authentic anger to begin with, then there is nothing to transform. Next, one must ask what his/her anger is for. Recognizing the purpose of one’s anger ultimately leads to a formulation and realization of goals that will be pursued. The purpose and goals of one’s anger lead to plans and directions. Although having a goal poses the danger of disappointment and frustration, and obstacles can obstruct the way, anger can be used in order to be persistent and tenacious in order to attain the goals. Once again, anger is transformed in this process of attaining one’s goal and emotions are used in a constructive way.