The Enemy Within

Think of your worst enemy. Someone who has done you great harm, maybe someone from the past.
In your mind they are to blame for your hurt and hardships and great emotions are conjured up, you may even recall intense anger.
The more hurt you feel the larger the enemy feels, however, it is our own lack of control that is the true enemy. It is our own anger, ego and selfishness that actually harms us. Reacting in retaliation to someone who has wronged you only creates a wound in your own peace and harmony.
Think of how many times anger has escalated a situation to the point of nonsense. Disciplining your self to react with cool and calm keeps you grounded and equipped to judge your conduct with right mind.
Anger is a valid emotion but it should be the spark to fire up the want for change. Anger unchecked, turns to hatred, hatred unchecked turns to bitterness and bitterness leaves no room for peace of mind and body.
It is the enemy within.

JC Masterson, Silent River Kung Fu, Alberta, Canada