Despite being an avid reader, I realize I missed some classics along the way. If you know me, you know I read Harry Potter for the first time about 18 months ago. I’ve read them through at least 2-3 additional times since. So wonderful. I love escaping to Hogwarts. I also somehow missed out on a Wrinkle in Time. Once I saw the advertisement for the movie, I realized I needed to read the novel first. I am so glad that I did. I resonated deeply with Meg and her journey.
The idea of staying angry and needing one’s anger has evoked a lot of thought. I, like many Americans (especially American female identified folks), tend to steer clear of anger. For a long time I genuinely believed I wasn’t avoiding anger as much as simply something I did not experience. Until I realized these recurring dreams I have where I am screaming at people may have something to do with that feeling that should not be named. I decided to start looking into anger more. What was I avoiding? What was I afraid of? Where did I get the message anger was bad? How can I embrace anger?
The journey towards owning my anger has been an interesting one to say the least. It is still a work in progress. Luckily I do a lot of psychodrama work, so there is a tackle dummy to await my anger expression! We use our hands, feet, and/or a bat to hit the tackle dummy and express and release anger and sadness. The more important piece for me, however, was identifying ways to address anger on a daily basis. Writing, going for walks, hitting a pillow, screaming into a pillow or in the shower, jumping on my trampoline, and allowing myself to get and express anger when situations call for it have really helped me. It still feels foreign, but it’s getting easier.
There is a lot of uncertainty in the world around us. From economic instability and climate change to my Eagles blowing a 14 point first quarter lead to lose in the playoffs, there’s a lot to be angry and fearful about. By allowing ourselves to feel and experience a range of emotions, including anger, we are giving ourselves and those around us the gift of authenticity.
