Inspirational articles from Living Life Fully

The (Ig)Noble Flames of Anger
Lucy Lopez

I have begun observing my anger, and one of the things that I have noticed is that it rises when I perceive, what to me, is an unjust situation. Most of us are offended, indeed angered, by injustice. And it has become fashionable to argue that anger can be used effectively; that in a sense, the end (justice) justifies the means (anger). But let us examine this situation carefully.

When we are angry, as a result of an unjust situation, (or any other situation for that matter), and when we decide to take action, what is it that actually drives our action? Is it the unfair situation that we find ourselves or someone else in? Or is it our desire, indeed our demand, that justice be delivered in exchange for our anger? Chances are that whilst the unjust situation may have been the initial trigger, it quickly assumes a secondary role as anger rises quickly in most of us!

Imagine, for a moment, if upon our awareness of an unjust situation, the warm light of love and compassion was lit up within us, instead of the flames of anger. How would we respond? Would we still demand justice? What would we exchange it for? If we said love, then could we still claim to love 'unconditionally' as many of us think we do, or aspire to? Is it in fact, wise to demand justice in the manner some cultures exhort us to?

The light of love illuminates much that is in darkness, including our own fears, prejudices, intolerance and doubts. In so doing, it offers us the opportunity to examine our motives and free them from these obscurations. When we are certain that our motives are pure, then we are able to be creative and open in our response. And such a response will clearly not require anger to drive it!

You will not be punished for your anger,
you will be punished by your anger.

Buddha Shakyamuni

© Lucy Lopez
INSPIRED PRESENCE--Personal Development Mentoring & Workshop Facilitation Success through Self-Awareness

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Yes, life can be mysterious and confusing--but there's much of life that's actually rather dependable and reliable. Some principles apply to life in so many different contexts that they can truly be called universal--and learning what they are and how to approach them and use them can teach us some of the most important lessons that we've ever learned.
My doctorate is in Teaching and Learning. I use it a lot when I teach at school, but I also do my best to apply what I've learned to the life I'm living, and to observe how others live their lives. What makes them happy or unhappy, stressed or peaceful, selfish or generous, compassionate or arrogant? In this book, I've done my best to pass on to you what I've learned from people in my life, writers whose works I've read, and stories that I've heard. Perhaps these principles can be a positive part of your life, too!
Universal Principles of Living Life Fully. Awareness of these principles can explain a lot and take much of the frustration out of the lives we lead.