Rage

by HJS

"Rage" is the name of a card game, a football team, a rock group, a beverage but it is also the term that we use to describe people who are out of control. People in rage lose their equilibrium and, driven by an uncontrollable anger, do crazy and often violent things that they would never do if they thought twice. These acts of rage can put them in prison for the rest of their lives.

Rage is uncontrolled anger. You find it on the road, in the office, standing in line at the post office, in the gym or hockey arena, and - sadly enough - also at home.

Psychologists are not certain why people are so angry today. It might be because of living too close to each other; too much violence on TV; changes in the way we think and live; too much stress that elevates our blood pressure and diminishes our patience.

Behavior can no more be legislated that we can pass laws to have sunshine and blue sky, healthy bodies, and children who laugh and play with each other. The reality is that individuals who allow themselves to get out of control can't manage themselves.

A child psychologist observed a father in a department store who would turn to his five-year-old boy and say things such as, "Easy, Albert, don't let that get to you." Or, "Take a deep breath, old buddy." Or, "Just relax. Don't sweat it."

Approaching the man, the child psychologist said, "I'm impressed with the way you handle your son, Albert." Whereupon, the man turns to him and says, "Hey, Albert's not his name; it's mine."

That kind of restraint is the first step to handling the problem of rage.

A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control.   PROVERBS 29:11