The TV is on tuned to one of those endless pseudo-news shows where the schtick is argumentation. The computer is also on with the email client and Web browser (with 20 tabs open) are displayed. Perhaps there are other distractions, and your mind is flitting from one thing you must do to another.
The arguers on TV say something that makes you angry (of course the point of the whole thing, so that you’ll continue watching). You receive an email from someone forwarding another provocative issue. Someone enters the room and you want to argue with them.
There’s too much distraction, too many things to needlessly raise your emotional intensity–all for the wrong things. It’s stuff you have no power over, so that further intensifies your feelings and response.
People have asked how I can maintain perspective and composure (well, most of the time–after all, I’m human not perfect). Well, you must ruthlessly remove distractions from your life. You can only focus on so many things–and one at a time is best. I have removed all TV news from my life. I choose my news sources–almost all over the Web. I try to get just news–what’s going on in the world. I choose what I read. I try to place everything in the context of higher, spiritual principles. Take the long view of events.
In this you try to emulate Jesus, our teacher and the pioneer of our faith (as the writer of Hebrews puts it). He showed anger when he could do something about it (clearing the Temple courtyard). He dealt with controversy with the point of view of God, not human emotions. He was focused on his mission in life.
Ruthlessly remove all distractions from your life. Try it.
Faith Venture 
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