The Healthiness of Anger

***Before I begin, I promise to become a more dedicated blogger. I'm sorry, I've just had the most hectic, yet blase summer. Sorry for the delay, this post took several blogging sessions to complete.***

"In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry,  and do not give the devil a foothold.  He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need.  Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.  And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.  Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice." 

- Ephesians 4: 28 - 31

Nowhere in the bible is it going to tell us that anger and hatred are good. Nowhere is it going to encourage to get angry every once in a while, get a little mad. A part of me has lately discovered the benefit to anger. Anger leads us to determination, to dedication, and to discovering passion for whatever angers us. But with this said are the many drawbacks, the many negativities. These are the ones the bible warns us about, our parents teach us to avoid, and we try so hard to prevent. 

I've done a little research on this, but not much. Anger is not a sin, according to the Catholic Web sites I've been looking up. Now if it's excessive and promoting extreme negative actions, that's another story. But getting angry every once in a while is good. It reminds us that we are our own individuals and we have our own opinions. But don't allow anger to take over your life. Get angry and let it go. Take 3 deep breaths. Go outside and scream. Punch a pillow - not a person. Lock yourself away, even it's only for a moment. Remind yourself that it is all going to be alright. Pray to God. 

When was the last time you were angry, and I mean really angry? What was it about? Can you identify the source of that anger? 

Life goes on. 

We're told not to be angry, but that essentially has us build up within us these feelings of hatred, anger, and resentment.

So, I leave you with these words:

Be angry, Be happy. Feel the way you feel, and don't deny yourself of these feelings.

Love God, Love Others, Love Yourself.

- Sarah Elizabeth