Anger

Politics is not in my purview here, but anger has been on my mind a lot lately. And in my heart. Whether it’s the actions of those in power, or closer to home, the actions of a family member or friend, I find myself awake at night fuming. If I’m going to suffer insomnia (a not so rare thing), I’d rather it be due to the thrill over a new project.

Sleepless, I’ll often put on a podcast to help distract the mind. A favorite that I caught up on recently: Revisionist History, hosted by author, reporter, runner, and music aficionado Malcolm Gladwell. I found the last several episodes of season three particularly inspiring right now and here’s why: Malcolm Gladwell knows how to harness anger. It drives him to investigate the irksome issue, put it in context with the bigger story, and go for setting the record straight. Often, he succeeds poignantly. It’s a reminder of not only the possibility of closing the gap between that initial emotional reaction and rational investigation, but that one can fuel the trip to the truth with that initial rending. Much exists beyond the edges of the spotlight.