Bill Myers

On the highway, it's called 'road rage'.

A frustrated driver vents his or her anger at other drivers. Sometimes with just a few rude gestures. Other times, the driver uses their vehicle as a weapon.

Often, people get hurt.

On the internet, it's called 'email rage'.

Angry at something in their lives, sane people vent their frustrations by writing something in an email that they should never send.

And then they send it.

The recipient of the raging email will probably be stunned by the message. Or frightened, or hurt. Certainly confused, as the recipient usually isn't connected to the event that triggered the rage.

To keep life sane, avoid being involved in 'email rage'.

Don't vent your anger in email messages. And don't respond to those who vent in messages sent to you. Never forget that email creates a traceable permanent record.

Before you send it, think twice.