We are not punished for our anger, we are punished by our anger. - Bhagavad Gita

Anger is a disruptive, unsettling, nonproductive, and unpleasant feeling. It races through the mind, heart, and body like a raging flame that burns up our self-control and can cause us to say and do things we may later regret.

Often, we get angry because we do not understand ourselves. Is it really what has happened or is it something deep within us? Something like fear, pride, ego, agitation, or suspicion? These come from within our own minds and hearts. Other people don't seem to matter.

When we get angry perhaps we are looking for someone or something to blame. Isn't it just an excuse when our lives are not exactly as we desire?
What happens to an angry person? The entire being is affected. The heartbeat speeds up, palms become moist, breathing accelerates, the face gets red, and eyes flash with indignation! And how long does it take for the body, mind, and spirit to recover from a fit of anger?

Why should we punish ourselves like that? When anger takes over, we become one more person who is creating additional disharmony in our world - not just in our personal world, but in our planetary home.

Many spiritual leaders have invited us to fill our selves with love, even toward those who may appear to be enemies. If we can send love where we previously sent blame, then we no longer need to choose anger as an option.