Anger shared
Anger shared properly with another person can strengthen the relationship by revealing the commitment we have to the issue that is at the core of our anger.
For example, we might reveal our anger when telling our child, "Becky, I really liked the necklace you took without my permission and broke. That was a present from grandma. I'm so sad that it's broken. I'm also feeling angry with you for taking it to play with. What's the rule about my jewelry?"
Obviously, chronic, inappropriate outbursts of anger can gradually poison a relationship. Indifference, though, may be equally destructive to a relationship. Children who feel ignored may misbehave to provoke a parent to anger. The anger, at least, brings them into contact with the parent.
Next: Principle 18: Anger reveals our passion for life