In this Part 2, Dave Richo talks about the sadness that can arise alongside anger, giving rise to grief and fear.
Find his handouts here: Healthy-Anger-by-Dave-Richo.pdf
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Anger itself is a healthy emotion that fits with Buddhist practice. It is the feeling of displeasure we experience at a perceived injustice, against ourselves or others. Healthy anger is a way of communicating what we feel is unjust or unfair.
Rather than hold it in, it can be healthy to express that feeling. We do not lose our temper, but maintain the boundaries that prevent us from becoming aggressive.
If that expression becomes hurtful to others, it contradicts our commitment to loving-kindness. It becomes abuse when it is marked by violence and retaliation – a type of theatrical display meant to intimidate.
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David Richo, Ph.D., is a psychotherapist, writer, and workshop leader. He shares his time between Santa Barbara and San Francisco, California. Dave combines psychological and spiritual perspectives in his work. His latest book is “Ready: How to Know When to Go and When to Stay.” (Shambhala, 2022). The website for books, talks, and events is www.davericho.com.