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Years Of Light, Years Of Love


By: Colin Auschrat, MA, Registered Psychologist
October 2026



Don't Let A Fleeting Shadow Destroy Years Of Light


This week marked the anniversary of the death of Edgar Allan Poe, a master at capturing the darker, more turbulent corners of the human psyche. 
Among his many haunting observations on the fragility of emotion, Poe once wrote: 

"Years of love have been forgot in the hatred of a minute."

As a psychologist, I often see how this tragic dynamic plays out in relationships.

The Real Specter That Threatens


Halloween season reminds us of monsters & sudden scares, but the real specter that threatens our most cherished connections is the sudden eruption of unmanaged anger.
It takes years of patient dedication, intimacy & care to build a strong partnership, yet during an intense conflict, emotional flooding can make us feel possessed by impulsive resentment, threatening to dismantle that foundation in an instant.
When emotional stress spikes, your body enters a fight or flight response. Your heart rate surges, logical thinking fades into the shadows & rational communication becomes nearly impossible. In this flooded state, a single harsh moment can leave lasting scars on your bond.

Learning To Pull Back From The Edge

Fortunately, you don't have to let angry impulses haunt your relationship. Practicing simple unflooding exercises can pull you back from the edge & help bring your emotions back under control.

  • Call a Healthy Time Out- The moment you feel overwhelmed, agree to step away. Pause the conversation for at least 20-30 minutes so your nervous system can settle.
  • Engage In Grounding Techniques- Focus on slow, deep breathing or shift your attention to soothing surroundings to quiet the physical rush of anger.
  • Return With Care- Once calm, reconnect with your partner to address the issue thoughtfully rather than reactively.

By learning to recognize emotional flooding & taking proactive breaks, you protect the valuable connection you've spent years nurturing from being damaged in a single moment of anger.

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