On taking a wider view..............

     People don't have the power to hurt you.  Even if someone shouts abuse at you or strikes you, if you are insulted, it is always your choice to view what is happening as insulting or not.  If someone irritates you, it is only your own response that is irritating.  Therefore, when anyone seems to be provoking you, remember that it is only your judgment of the incident that provokes you.  Don't let your emotions get ignited by mere appearances.
     Try not to merely react in the moment.  Pull back from the situation.  Take a wider view;  compose yourself.

-Epictetus, from A Manual For Living