Hate is an evil word, and, unfortunately, it consumes too many of us today.
On the extreme side, people have been killed in the name of hate, not only in wars but in family disputes, road rage and simple arguments. Hate also rears its ugly head in everyday conversations about politics, religion and even sports. Some blame members of the media, and rightfully so. Others say social media fans the flames, and it most certainly does. But at the end of the day, we all have the personal responsibility to decide how we want to respond to hate.
It’s not easy, but I try not to hate, and that starts with avoiding the use of the word. Words have energy that either build up or zap energy from others, and hate takes a great deal of energy that could be used for so many positive things.
When our daughters were young, they would tell me they hated certain foods, certain songs, certain TV shows — mostly things I liked, of course. I would ask them if they knew how negatively powerful of a word hate was, and I would point out how they could use other words to make their points. They likely hated it when I said this.
Sure, there are comments that offend me, people who annoy me, and opinions I disagree with. My lack of patience spurs much of it, but I am learning to be fascinated and entertained by those differing views rather than hating the people who have them. I enjoy the challenge of prodding people to see the other side, whether I agree with them or not. Sometimes it works; most of the time, it doesn’t. And, at times, I still feel the emotion of anger. That’s because we are all human and are subject to the feelings of hate. As comedian and TV host Bill Maher says, humans are not good people. Even so, we can try to do better. The Odyssey website shares some useful tips to implement when we feel the need to hate.
Take a deep breath. This is always the first and best step toward clearing your mind.
Remember that this person is human. Nobody is perfect, not this person and certainly not you. Your words will hurt.
Let it go. It may be easier said than done, but don’t let yourself dwell on the issue. That will only make you more upset.
Or, as I do, find the humor in the differences you share with others and be grateful we are not convinced to have the same opinions — as that could be even more dangerous.
Have a terrific Tuesday, and thanks for reading.
Shane Goodman
President and Publisher
Big Green Umbrella Media
shane@dmcityview.com
515-953-4822, ext. 305
www.thedailyumbrella.com | 
