Wow, so many wonderful words of wisdom!
As others have said, taking the high road is easier, and more spontaneous, when there are practices in place (like meditation) – the more I offer love, acceptance and kindness it, the easier it is to do.
That said, it’s something I struggle with at times. When this happens I find it comes down to being willing to offer acceptance, kindness and forgiveness to myself, even when (or especially when) I don’t feel I deserve it. When I can hold my own anger or unkindness in a compassionate embrace, my defensiveness eventually collapses. Then can it becomes possible (even easy sometimes) to view the situation and person/people involved with compassion and truly act from the heart.