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About this quote

What does it mean?
Holding onto bitterness harms you over time, while anger can clear the path forward.
In plain terms
Bitterness eats you alive, but anger can burn things away cleanly.
What can you take from it?
Choose short-term anger over long-term bitterness.

Where it applies

  • after a conflict
  • during heartbreak
  • processing betrayal

Putting it to work

  • recognize bitter feelings
  • channel anger into action
  • let go of grudges

Questions to consider

  • How do you handle lingering resentment?
  • What helps you release anger?

Another view

Suppressed anger can also become harmful if not expressed healthily.

More from Maya Angelou

  1. At fifteen life had taught me undeniably that surrender, in its place, was as honorable as resistance, especially if one had no choice.

    Permalink to quote #20
  2. Children's talent to endure stems from their ignorance of alternatives.

    Permalink to quote #22
  3. Ask for what you want and be prepared to get it.

    Permalink to quote #19

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