“Fools show their annoyance at once, but the prudent overlook an insult.” — Proverbs 12:16 NIV

Circumstances give us the option of reacting or responding. Reacting is usually an immediate assumption that leads to unthoughtful retaliation or revenge. Foolish people jump to conclusions and react without thinking. Don’t be like them.

Instead, choose to respond by giving the situation some thought. When others say false things against you or disrespect you, you don’t have to turn that into an immediate fight. Getting back at some one for insulting you is not a reason to bring harm to others and to yourself.

When we live our lives with the future in mind — goals, dreams, plans — we are less likely to throw that away for a temporary feeling of superiority. So choose to pause and think, before you immediately react and regret.