This week we are continuing our talk about self-control.  Self-control is essential because if you don’t have self–control, other people or situations will control you.

First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”  Here’s what that means:

There once was a karate master who lived in the mountains.  He was well-known throughout the area for being a humble, wise master. 

One day he decided to come down from the mountain and visit the local villagers. Unfortunately, while enjoying a meal, some local hoodlums and troublemakers noticed him sitting there and decided to test him.

They started calling him all kinds of names and making fun of him.  They hoped to get him angry and prove to the villagers he was not a master of his emotions.

After a few minutes of the troublemakers instigating and probing, he turned to them and said, “May I ask you a question?”  Confused at this response, the troublemakers replied, “Yes.” Then, the master asked, “If someone tries to give you a gift, but you refuse to accept it, to whom does it belong?” The troublemakers responded, “Well, I guess it still belongs to the one trying to give it away.” 

The master replied, “You are correct. But, just like your anger, I refuse to accept it; it still belongs to you.”

Do you see? Did you know how the Master did not let the anger of the hoodlums become his anger?  Sometimes people say hurtful things, and we’re tempted to believe what they say and feel bad about ourselves. But First Lady Roosevelt was talking about this – DON’T GIVE THEM THE POWER!

Key Takeaway

Don’t let their anger become your anger.  Don’t let anyone careless, insensitive, or mean determine your feelings. Don’t give them that kind of power.

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