THE DURATION OF ANGER

There be some whom anger is somewhat prompt in inflaming, but quickly leaves them; while there are others whom it is slow in exciting, but the longer in retaining possession of; for some, like kindled reeds, while they clamour with their voices, give out something like a crackle at their kindling; those indeed speedily rise into a flame, but then they forthwith cool down into their ashes. While others, like the heavier and harder kinds of wood, are slow in taking fire, but being once kindled, are with difficulty put out; and as they slowly stir themselves into heat of passion, retain the longer the fire of their rage. 

St. Gregory the Great

(10-07-03)