Reflection - anger management

My block has a rain shelter for people to board and alight from vehicles without getting wet. This shelter was added only in the last few years and unfortunately it is at an angle to the corner units in my block, mine included. Drivers have a tendency to stop and wait there with their engines running., and we end up having exhaust fumes coming into our units through the windows of the master bedroom, the kitchen and the bathrooms. This is despite there having a 'no waiting' sign.

This afternoon, a lorry pulled up there and the driver left the engine running while he chatted with a female companion in the cool comfort of the airconditioned driver's cab.

When the driver did not drive off or switch off the engine after a while, I went down and told him to do so in an agitated manner. He promptly complied without any protest.

While coming back to my unit, I realised that I had allowed my irritation at his inconsiderate behaviour to get the better of me.

On reflecting on my action, I realised that there are people who are engrossed with themselves and who may not be aware of their surroundings, and the effect their actions have on others.

This was not the first time that I had gone down to tell drivers to switch off their engines, and there are those who argued that it was only for a short while.

Still I ought to have better control of my anger. I am aware that, when I confront a person in that manner, I run the risk of getting a similar reaction in return, and the consequence could be an open confrontation, which would definitely be bad for all involved. And yet, I noticed that whenever something like this happens, I usually react with irritation, especially when I am reminded of the effect it will have on my children. I always regret when it is over.

I have been thinking, instead of trying to control my anger, I should remind myself to accept the fact that not everyone is conscious of their actions, that they need gentle reminders to raise their level of consciousness. Maybe, I might have better control of the situation if I practise acceptance first, then perhaps anger management could be more achievable.

So, remember, don't agitate myself to death. Remember, I am in a superior position if I can accept others' shortcomings.