I wanted to think about anger versus toughness. I am tough. I grew up in a tough household and came out swinging. That was how I survived. I graduated from one of the best Colleges in the South by sheer grit and determination. I have clawed my wy up the career ladder and have been successful. I have done a lot in my life through this quality. On one hand it has served me well, on other matters not so well.
So, the point I try to make is that toughness can morph into anger. My anger does not involve throwing things, hitting things, just saying mean things during the moments of anger. 99% of the time, I am pretty mild but when I get upset, yes I can get angry. For example if someone tries to hurt one of my kids or I perceive them in danger, I can get angry. I never mean to hurt anyone's feelings or be mean, but during the heat of a argument or situation words get said that are regretable.
On the Viper comment that has been talked about, believe me, this was taken in the context of what my lawyer advised me to do to protect myself from untruths. Period. This coment was about protecting my kids. So yes, I accept it, I will do anything to protect my kids.
So, to clarify, I am tough, resilient, take charge, can withstand almost anything. On the negative, that can be viewed as anger, hostile, and/or inflexible. It's a fine line.
Do you feel I am being judged negatively as compared to men who are advised to read " No More Mr. Nice Guy" and "Protecting your Nuts". Men are always advised to be strong and tough, have a firm handle on the wives.
I have viewed this whole situation as an attack and assault on my family. I have fought back to protect them.
I can see now this was probably not the best strategy and more love and patience and acceptance would have been a better approach. I am working on softening my approaches with all matters. It works better and makes me and all around me a happier person.
