For-Against

The aggression-reaction cycle is typically human. It appears to be wired into our animal brains. However, our frontal lobes, if developed mindfully through education and practice, can break free from the aggression-reaction cycle. If you tie your life to the aggression-reaction cycle, you will live an emotionally tidal life, which may well bring you material success but will not bring you happiness.

Freedom from the aggression-reaction cycle comes with finding the center of your personal truth and happiness. This is called finding your Way. It is achieved by practicing meditation, practicing healthy living and practicing compassion for yourself and others in your daily moments. The simple act of pausing and breathing deeply when you feel yourself reacting to aggression can make all the difference in a life situation. I often visualize my hand on the rudder of my life force in these situations. I steer my life around the aggression and past it. Practically, I simply ignore the insult and walk away from it.

Learning to not engage in the aggression-reaction cycle brings you into nonviolent being. Gradually, you are able to see aggression approaching before it is overt. Steering clear of it becomes easier with mindfulness and practice. Your own propensity for being reactionary diminishes. Peace descends upon you naturally from your own peaceful consciousness.