Mark Twain used to say, “When angry, count to four; when very angry, swear.”

The first part of Twain’s advice bears merit and the latter part is a strong temptation.  In either case, however, never decide anything in moments of rage.  Robert Ingersoll, who may have been wrong about many things, was right when he said: “:Anger blows out the lamp of the mind.  In the examination of a great and important question, everyone should be serene, slow-pulsed, and calm.”

There is a world of wisdom in some of the slang expressions of our time.  Our young people often say, “Don’t blow your cool.”  “Hang loose.”

That’s good advice, but advice not easily followed.  Easy or not, this much is clear:  never make up your mind in a moment of rage.  You can lock yourself out forever.