White hot

Why is it that rage, which most people think of as the epitome of anger, is so often accompanied by or followed by tears, which are usually associated with sadness?

I think it has to do with the brain (or actually, the mind) experiencing some sort of pain and when tears don’t seem to be a viable option, it turns to anger which then escalates to rage. But it’s kinda like getting rid of dandelions in your yard. If you don’t pull up that root and deal with it, they will come back. And in this metaphor, sadness is the root, which is why tears are the unofficial wingman for rage.

I have known a couple of people who burst into tears when they are angry. This one chick was absolutely livid, about ready to put her fist through someone’s face, and yet she was sobbing uncontrollably. It was the strangest thing, but also one of the most honest emotional expressions I have ever witnessed.

Next time you’re angry, maybe ask yourself what is making you sad. You might be able to deal with that root and get rid of the emotional dandelion.