Hate

   
     An extreme dislike aimed at a variety of targets: a particular person, a certain group or philosophy; a disability, decline in health, pain, and suffering; lack of basic essentials; suppression of human rights; cruelty, violence, crime, abuse of power, plus other behavior judged as evil.
     Many people believe that hate is something we should strive to eliminate from our emotions and actions because it isn't nice or proper to feel this way.  Often, we deny or even fool ourselves into believing we don't have this "embarrassing" emotion.  Hate seems negative, but it can spur us on toward positive outcomes.
     In infancy, discomfort is felt: too cold, too hot, hunger, thirst, pain, neglect.  Our wails signal others who will help us survive.  Later, fear creeps in as we anticipate something unpleasant, and in some cases, phobias develop.  Anger adds to the mix.
     Self-hate can develop when we are too critical of ourselves or dislike a part of ourselves, a physical attribute, a personality trait or shortcoming, a lack of purpose, guilt over past or present behavior.  Comparing yourself to an ideal or feeling jealousy towards others can lead to low self-esteem and depression.
     Many religions define humans as sinful beings who deserve punishment.  These believers may become judgmental of themselves and others, then feel a need for forgiveness from a supernatural power.  Some think humans are sinful from day one and will always fall short of what they should be.
     Hate can cause harm to yourself and others.  It can upset you emotionally and physically.  The hated and the hater can suffer the consequences.  However, we can recognize and accept hate as a natural and normal emotion and use it to make positive changes in ourselves and the world.