Remember the public service announcements from Smokey the Bear? Only You can Prevent Forest Fires…..Well parents, this is your public service announcement: Only You can Prevent Temper Tantrums and future anger management classes for your child.

It seems that many people have difficulty containing their anger. I am one of those people. I have a temper that flares very quickly…..explodes, then subsides as quickly as it arrived. Nonetheless, words are spoken….feelings are hurt. As I age, my temper flares less often….I have mellowed, but there is always room for improvement. Especially because I am finding this trait so abhorrent in others, I have come to the conclusion that I must master my disposition once and for all.

Interestingly enough, from the time I became aware that I should tame my anger, I was less triggered by others. I am not sure if the two are related, but I am guessing they are.

Anger is a fickle bitch with a multiple personality disorder. They’ll be mad in 90 degree weather for something they tolerated on a perfect 75 degree sort of day. They will be pissed at you for something after only 3 hours of sleep that they thought was funny after a full 8 hours. And really, is it Anger yelling at you on Tuesday or did Hurt, Frustration, Low Blood sugar, or Fear show up for Jerry Springer?

And we’re back from the segue…. As far as anger is concerned, I am entitled to my anger just as…