A person who suffers bitterly when slighted or insulted should recognize from this that he still harbors the ancient serpent in his breast. If he quietly endures the insult or responds with great humility, he weakens the serpent and lessens its hold. But if he replies acrimoniously or brazenly, he gives it strength to pour its venom into his heart and to feed mercilessly on his inward parts. In this way the serpant becomes increasingly powerful; it destroys his souls strength and his attempts to set himself right, compelling him to live for sin and to be completely dead to rightousness.
Source:
Daily Lives, Miracles, and Wisdom of the Saints and Fasting Calendar
Contributed by:
boyznamedsue 
