“Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space is our power to choose our response. In our response lies our growth and our freedom.” Viktor E. Frankl

A quick response is preferred when it is a good response, like being quick to listen. But a knee jerk reaction is undesired when it is bad, like uncontrolled anger. Interesting that we call this “getting mad.” Anger is often a kind of madness or insanity.  Choose the sober response, one that thinks clearly, purposefully and wisely. Give yourself a greater pause if necessary. 

“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness that God requires.” James 1:19–20 “Conversations Within” ts 6/27/2019