Since a couple of very unfortunate incidents in my teens and twenties I do try to keep my temper well in check.

In a situation such as Ebbie's I think I might have reacted similarly, but always trying to make sure that it was me, not my temper, who was in charge. Mostly I will not react to idiots - I see it as not being worth the trouble - a 'don't wrestle with a pig' situation.