I AM OUTTA HERE!!!

We’ve all been there.

You’re just trying to do your job, but SOMEONE–boss, coworkers, customers (take your pick!)–just will NOT. LAY. OFF. Despite your best attempts SOMEONE just keeps pushing and this time it’s just one push too far.

Freeze.

It’s what happens next that really counts. Do you

a) ignore it
b) take it in stride and laugh it off
c) go to your superior
d) flip out, swear over the intercom, grab a couple of beers and exit via emergency slide?

In the heat of the moment, flight attendant Steven Slater decided to go with what was probably the most dramatic and extreme response possible.



Judging by his meteoric rise to pop culture fame, it’s pretty clear that most people have been in similar situations and felt similar rage on the job. The fact that Slater is being dubbed “The Working Man’s Hero” attests to the degree to which his episode of workplace frustration struck a chord with just about everyone.

The problem is this: There is nothing heroic about losing it and striking out at those around you. They say that discretion is the better part of valour. King Solomon put it this way:

"It is a wise man's good sense to be slow to anger, and his glory to pass over a transgression." Proverbs (19:11)

Let’s look at another translation, shall we?

“A person of great understanding is patient, but a short temper is the height of stupidity.”

Kinda puts it all in perspective, doesn’t it?

The Rambam brings forth the wisdom of the early Sages when he points out that “Whoever angers is as if he has performed idolatry.” Pretty harsh words. But the truth often is. Think about what he’s saying here: Angry people no longer have control over themselves. They are slaves to the emotion.

So, even though we can empathize with Steven Slater, let’s not glorify his spectacular behaviour. Into every life a little rain must fall. Unfortunately, sometimes it comes down in buckets. And when it does, take a moment and think before you act.

Let a cooler head prevail,

Rabbi Shmulik Yeshayahu

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