Holding onto anger is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die. – Buddha
For years I had myself convinced that I was a pretty easygoing guy. Live and let live. Hang loose. No worries, Brah.*
And I recently realized that I was lying to myself the whole time. No lies are more convincing than the ones we tell ourselves.
Apparently I am pretty thin skinned. Insulted easily. Offended often. And I hold grudges. Boy, can I hold a grudge.
So what is an angry boy to do? Become aware of the self-talk. Stop and think. And forgive. On the spot. No questions asked.
What’s the worst that can happen? I stop taking the poison.
*Of course, those who live and work with me would beg to differ.