Anger yields patience.

I am an Aquarius which contrary to popular belief is not a water sign and rather is an air sign. (NOTE: I am not an astrology expert.) Yes, us Aquarious folks are interested in so many ideas, concepts and merging what seems contrarian. AND air gives life to fire. Where there is fire (passion), an Aquarius has the ability to fuel the flames. All this to say, that I have been know to have a short temper. I am easily annoyed and frustrated and can be quick to anger and can embody rage on occasion.

In recent weeks, I experienced a skin condition that laid a foundation for frustration in my own body for nearly two months. Any spark of annoyance and there was anger. I don’t like this part of myself, this behavior. I wish I were more patient and so does my mom. Maybe I will aim to bottle up some patience for Mother’s Day 2021?

There’s lots of reasons why we suppress anger. I could get on my soap box, but I’ll simply say, “Nice girls don’t get angry.” Get the idea?

In 2019, during the beginning year of training as a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, I finally made contact with my anger. I was surprised at how creative and vital the nature of this energy is when consciously expressed and directed. In fact, getting intimate with anger arising in my body yielded patience.

Bonnie Bainbridge says, “Fire became speech, and entered the mouth.”

Love is not easily angered 1 Corinthians 13:4-8

The most fundamental aggression to ourselves, the most fundamental harm we can do to ourselves, is to remain ignorant by not having the courage and the respect to look at ourselves honestly and gently.
― Pema Chödrön, When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times

We will explore this at Third Saturday Sangha hosted by Sarah Clark. Join us this Saturday, 2:30-4pm.