My response

She sent a message that could've started World War III!

I mean, seriously? Who does that?

My fingers danced furiously across the keyboard, and I unleashed a torrent of words, determined to 'give her a piece of my mind' that she'd never forget.

I was determined to unleash a verbal tornado of epic proportions!

Because, I mean, come on! What planet was she living on to think that was an acceptable message to send to another human being?

As I typed the last full stop, my mind chimed in with an ominous question, 'Are you done yet?'

***Cricket sound***

It was like my mind itself was holding its breath, waiting for me to wrap up my rant, as if it didn't want to interrupt this glorious venting session.

We both knew there was no way I was sending that meticulously crafted, 'justified' venomous reply.

So, in a moment of clarity and self-preservation, I deleted the entire literary masterpiece I'd crafted and instead opted for a more, shall we say, diplomatic reply.

I just wanted to give her a taste of her own medicine.

But!

I have a policy that if it doesn't edify, I am not sending it.

Nah, this is not an 'I am better than you' kinda post.

A few times, my hands have started and finished the work before my rational mind came to the fore.

But again!

If I had responded in the same measure, I would have only been a very worthy reflector of the same negative energy that I claim to abhor.

Do you know what happened when she got my response?

She became weak, and tendered apologies incessantly. This was the same person that was ready to fight to any length moments ago.

Most of the time, that 'piece of your mind' should really just be to you and yourself. Don't deny what you're feeling—anger, rage, whatever— but don't act on it.

You can express your emotions through texts, by calling a friend and ranting to them, or talking yourself in the mirror. Just figure out what works for you.

When you are done, take a deep breath, and respond rationally.

You don't fight darkness with darkenss; you fight darkness with light.

Sometimes, it's just better to keep the theatrics for a one-person audience in your head!Or at least, away from the source of the bile.

I hope you make rational decisions today.