Anger is a fire that, once kindled, can burn much more than was ever intended.

Think about a time when a harsh word or a frustrating situation made your blood boil. It can feel like a pressure cooker inside, sure, but what happens next?

Marcus was reminding himself—and now, us—to consider how our fiery reactions often leave a trail of destruction that's much worse than whatever sparked our rage.

In our daily lives, that means the fallout from a moment of anger—harsh words to a loved one, a rash decision at work, or a snapped reaction to a stranger—can have long-lasting effects that poison relationships, reputations, and peace of mind.

Now, ask yourself: is responding in anger worth the potential consequences you'll have to face? The answer is usually no.

The practice of Stoicism asks us to acknowledge the anger, recognize its source, but then to pause and choose a response that won't leave us with regrets.

Next time you’re on the verge of lashing out, take a deep breath and envision the potential fallout. Opt for a response that aligns with who you want to be—someone who acts with patience and wisdom, rather than with a hot temper.

That way, you'll avoid turning a brief spark into a damaging blaze.