There is a dark side to everyone I have met, including myself. The ability and willingness to create havoc is an early indicator. Perhaps more to the point, are the examples of venom expressed towards people that we do not know. When I say this I am thinking of several recent examples of road rage. Even in a city as small, relatively traffic free, and with limited rush hours, there are examples. I have witnessed and been a victim in several examples, each causing me to wonder and I times utter a curse in response.
I would like to think that I am always able to rise about it. Not even close. When cars create a near miss situation, anger shows up from places I had no idea existed. In addition to a British formed reverse peace sign, my mind forms and at times hurls curses in the direction of the car. I cannot write what I said but I can paraphrase; “Let them dissolve into snail slime, be a miscarried fetus that never sees sunlight.” (Psalm 58.8)
In my calmer moments, I remind myself of the following.
As obvious as some actions seem, sometimes they are innocent actions with unintended consequences. The action may look evil. It may feel like it is intentional. It can fit into the context of being angry. However, it may just be a decision taken without thinking, looking, or knowing.
Confronting an individual does not always bring the response one is looking for. In response to one apparent act of answer I asked “what, why”? Despite repeated pleas, each louder than the former, the only response I could sense coming was a repeat of the first action, this time with more force and intent.
There are times where holding another to account is the right answer. There are also times when the best answer is to exit the situation as quickly and as quietly as one can. Life reminds me that most events call for exits not engagements.
There is a dark side out there, be alert, stay safe.
