Seek Help for Your Anger
An angry cat in Oregon attacked a baby this week and forced a family to lock themselves in a bedroom. The news reports stated that in their 911 call for help, the angry screeches of the cat could be heard as it tried to get to the family through the bedroom door.
Today, we learn that the family is getting therapy for the cat to help it deal with its anger. The cat scratched the baby’s face, so the parent’s are concerned. However, it has been in the family for years, so they don’t want to get rid of it.
If it were me, my biggest concern would be the family. I’d get rid of the cat for the sake of the baby. But it’s not my cat or child. I will leave them with their decisions.I’m grateful they’re doing something.
My concern is angry parents who act like that cat, lashing out and wounding others, but who are too proud to admit their problem and do something about it. They scratch, bruise and scar the hearts and souls of their family. Unlike this parent, they pretend nothing is wrong.
Scratches on a face will heal. Scars on hearts and souls are not so quick to heal. Some leave permanent damage. (Healing is available through the great Physician, but many wounded are never healed.)
The baby’s face will heal from cat scratches. However, that baby will probably always dislike cats—if not have a deep fear of them. Once wounded, it’s natural—even healthy—to put up your guard and be cautious in the future.
It is the same in a family. Anger creates barriers, dislike, and loss of respect toward the angry person. It destroys the ability to offer meaningful input in the life of the wounded.
“The anger of man does not achieve the righteousness of God” (James 1:20). If, like the cat, you’ve lashed out at those you love, you’ve wounded them. Do something about your anger. Seek help so you can be a positive influence in their lives.
Have you been wounded by an angry family member? Have you found healing?