Anger is a normal emotion that everyone experiences from time to time. Especially with everything that has been going on in the news lately. However, if you find your anger turns to aggression or outbursts, you need to find healthy ways to deal with anger. One phrase that I have adopted is “be quick to be slow”. Meaning, act quickly to be slow to anger. We are taught this principle in James 1:19 of the bible. 

There are many children’s books that help us understand our anger and how we should react when angry.  Our go to book on this topic is Llama Llama Mad at Mama.  Mostly because I can relate to Llama Llama as both of us agree that shopping is not fun!  The best part about this book, It does not tell you how to handle your anger. Instead, it leaves it open for the adults and children to come to their own conclusions of how to control their emotions.  

Here are a few way to control your anger:

1. Count down from 100

2. Take slow, deep breaths

3. Go for a walk

4. Stretch

5. Play some tunes

6. Stop talking

7. Put yourself in a timeout

8. Write in your journal

9. Picture a stop sign

10. Watch or listen to something that will make you laugh

As Scouts, we could probably recite the Scout Oath or Law over and over until we diffuse our anger.  And if you are still not cooled down after that… maybe go on to recite the outdoor code a few times.  

Let us all be quick to be slow to anger as we live and practice the Scout Oath and Law each and every day.