I am an angry man!!! Not really, but sometimes I am. A lot of it I "learned" watching my father take out all his insecurities and failures on the people around him. And of course I am still hurt about where my marriage is. But you're right, getting to that mental "sweet spot" where you can be in control of yourself is what it's all about.
My W called me a "dumbass" last night in a mean way, for not pulling out of a driveway faster with a car coming. I could sense it was anger and bitterness like my father always showed. I used to spit a lot of this venom at my W. And I know this venom comes from hurt and pain. So I initially addressed the disrespect, but I didn't hang on to it. Will I tolerate forever? No. But being reactionary doesn't help a thing. Understanding other lashing out has more to do with their own chaos than anything is something I think you and I both "get".
And I really wanted to commiserate with you. Call her bad words, spit, cuss, you know: guy stuff!
So sorry for making my post all about me, I am happy for your progress. The part that stood out the most to me was your decision to no longer just survive, but to thrive. I think that's why you will do well.
H 34 W 29 BD 3/12/18 Divorce Busted Spring 19
It is not things that bother us, but the stories we tell ourselves about things.