Tuesday; October 13

Last Sunday was one of those days that was best fit for waterfowl.  It started out being rainy and dreary and continued throughout a good portion of the day.  Now, while I am not a meteorologist, I understand the weather that influenced us was the lingering effects of what had been Hurricane Isais.  No, we did not get nearly the severe weather that affected the Gulf Coast, but the storm shared some of its make-up with us.

As I watched the gray day, I got to thinking about the lingering influence that our moods can have.  Most of us will have momentary “explosions” of anger, but those dissipate pretty quickly.  Yet, when this does happen, the lingering effects can last for a period of time.  There are times when the immediate impact is obvious, but how often do our flair-ups ruin other people’s days or our influence?  I would love to advocate an anger-free lifestyle and, while I think that’s what we should seek, I also realize that most of us won’t attain it.  So, what is the next best option?  The Apostle Paul wrote, “Be angry, and yet do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger, and do not give the devil an opportunity.” (Ephesians 4:26-27).  When we aspire to limit the impact of anger, it will have fewer residual impacts on our lives and the lives of others – especially those who are not the recipients of the original flash of emotion.

Think About It!

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