One of the toughest things in the world is dealing with irrational people who purposely seek to mistreat you.
You can waste a LOT of time trying to diagnose the source of their anger and bad behavior.
Or, you can simply accept that their behavior is just that. Theirs. They own it. It's on their "permanent record," so to speak.
Really, the best advice I've had in weathering such storms may be found in the Book of Luke.
At the risk of mixing metaphors, his account of the Sermon on the Plain warns us against responding to angry people with more anger. That results only in a more toxic atmosphere.
If someone is behaving badly, why emulate them? Someone who allows bitterness to govern their actions and decisions is not a good role model.
Instead, try emulating the greatest example mankind has ever had, and show them some mercy.
With the hope these words may speak to you as they have to me this day:
Luke 6:
27 ¶ But to you who hear I say love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,
28 Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.
29 To the person who strikes you on one cheek, offer the other one as well. And from the person who takes your cloak, do not withhold even your tunic.
30 Give to everyone who asks of you; and from the one who takes what is yours, do not demand it back.
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