The Critical Revelation About Anger and “A Course in Miracles”

Acknowledging and accepting our spectrum of emotions

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Anger is one of the most primal human emotions. It surfaces when we find ourselves in situations or circumstances that do not conform to how we think they should be. We become angry at injustices. We become incensed when we deem something or someone is acting out of accord with what we believe should be done.

We feel anger and we express anger. We scream, yell, argue, make threats, and act out in various ways many would not be proud of. This expression, however, can sometimes spiral out of control, leading to further negative consequences that only deepen our frustrations.

In some circles, the notion that we should never feel anger is considered a meaningful and appropriate way to live. In essence, some who subscribe to this view argue that feelings of anger should be met with shame and guilt. Notice, this does not refer to doing something—an action or a response. It is shame and guilt leveled against a feeling one has.

A Course in Miracles does touch upon the topic of anger. Perhaps the most direct statement on anger is found in chapter 30 of the text:

Anger is never justified.

It’s important to note what this short and seemingly simple sentence is saying. The Course is highlighting and indeed clarifying that anger, in any situation or form, is not justified. However, this does not mean that the Course is saying one should never feel angry. It is simply saying that anger is never justified.

Armed with this intellectual insight about anger, we can more fully acknowledge, respect, and process our own feelings. We can work through anger. We can recognize it is OK to feel it while simultaneously admitting that holding onto anger and wallowing in it is unjustified.

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Indeed, in this way, the Course calls on us to let go of our anger, grievances, and upsets.

This is a liberating perspective. It casts away feelings of guilt or shame for feeling a basic human emotion. Understanding that “anger is never justified” means there is never a valid or worthwhile reason for holding onto it. It does not do us any good. Holding onto anger keeps us anchored and grounded in the upset, the lovelessness that we are outraged at, and ultimately in an illusion.

We can allow ourselves to experience anger fully, acknowledging its presence without letting it dictate our actions or thoughts. This acceptance does not mean we condone harmful behaviors; rather, it encourages us to confront our emotions directly, fostering healthier responses. By acknowledging our anger, we can begin to investigate its roots, understand the underlying fears or insecurities driving our reactions, and distinguish between using our anger constructively versus destructively.

We can let go of anger even though we may have reason to feel it.

The Course aims for us to remove the blocks to our awareness of love. Anger is one such block. It is a particular manifestation of the ego and an attempt to shield our awareness and consciousness from our reality, the feeling of love, and the experience of peace.

Therefore, remember that we can come to terms with and process the full spectrum of emotions we have, including anger. We can process our feelings, acknowledging them while also choosing to let go of everything and anything that fails to bring serenity into our lives. In doing so, we pave the way for a fuller experience of love, understanding, and ultimately peace in our hearts.

Light and love,

A. Writer

Prior Posts of Interest:

What is the Holy Spirit?

Miracles and the Recognition of Our Oneness & Equality

Why You Should Start a Journal, Today

Think You Have Many Problems? Think Again

Am I Asking for Too Much, or Too Little