Our world today is riddled with significant, constant discord. We witness rebellions, governmental abuse, riots, wars, and terrorism that is related of anger. In recent posts, we have been looking at unhealthy styles of anger expression. Frequently, the continued expression of unhealthy and aggressive anger leads to the kinds of conflict, hatred and pain that we are seeing in our world. I cannot help but think of the men, women and children traumatized by the impact of war, and I am struck at how mass anger has overtaken our world.
What will you be celebrating this 4th of July?
I am personally going to be involved in a large celebration this 4th of July weekend. We will be honoring two men and those they represent: Paul Galanti, a Viet Nam prisoner of war of 7 years, and one of our firemen of 911, who so bravely helped hundreds of people escape that horrible set of events that took over 3,000 lives almost 10 years ago.
As I think of those who are representing and ensuring our freedom, I want to say a big thank you to all who have committed themselves to serve our country and each of us. These individuals have given sacrificially and graciously. Some families have had to sacrifice a son, daughter, mom or dad for the cause of freedom.
Privilege or responsibility: freedom to speak, freedom to choose
We have the freedom to discuss the tough subjects of this blog. We can address significant issues in the lives of our families. We have many choices about many things, all because of the freedom earned by the hard work and sacrificial giving of those who have gone before us.
One choice we have is how we handle issues that can promote anger.
Our enlisted personnel rise to the challenges of war and tragedy each day; they have no choice but to do so in light of their mission. However, as civilians, we do have choices. I hope that we choose to continue to learn how to help our families and children become emotionally and relationally healthy.
We, too, can become heroes. We can rise to become those who would set each other free to live our lives to the fullest, enjoying healthy relationships in our families and community.
Renew your commitment
I hope you and your family will have a great 4th of July. I also hope you will celebrate those who have granted us the many freedoms we enjoy. It is a great time to thank them for their service.
I also trust that you will continue to renew your commitment to be an influencer for helping those you touch to be free from the devastating impact of violent or unhealthy anger.
Happy 4th of July to you all! Thanks so much for reading our blog.
