How to NOT React to Anger

Yesterday, I got a very loud knock on my office door.

“Hey! You parked in my spot!”
My heart skipped a beat.
The knock was enormous.
This person must be feeling it!
“Ah sorry about that. I didn’t know we had specific spots. Should I move it?”
“Nah. Just don’t do it again.”

I wanted to react. I felt all the aggressive feelings. But instead I called on my practice. I allowed the feelings to be there. I allowed my body to get hot and sweaty. And I allowed it to pass. It can be so intense to decide to not react straight away!

Hours later, when everything settled, I spontaneously thought what could bring back the good vibes? What could ease the tension?

I slipped a coffee voucher under his door. He was chuffed.

This small decision I made to not react, has an impact that goes way beyond any moment of gratification I feel from acting out on my anger. May this inspire small moments of kindness instead of small moments of anger. That’s what I’m working on 🙏