Know your roots...

When I think about it, the root of all evil may indeed be hate, but the root of hate is misunderstanding. We're afraid of what we don't understand and when we're afraid we take dumb, mean, and sometimes inexcusable actions to protect ourselves from perceived threats. Over time that fear develops into hate and then hate itself, sadly, flourishes. So what happens is, we begin to hate people, places, and things we don't even know for no reason.

I think that ultimately all anyone really wants is to be understood. We want to be individuals, but we need the support of others. We need to know that others can relate to our life experiences. Understanding somehow validates us as human beings and tells us that we're not alone. Furthermore, where there is understanding there is love. And who doesn't want to be loved?

So here's the deal... Do not be quick to judge others because you are not perfect. Agree to disagree when you do not share the same point of view as another; agreeing to disagree is a concept that desperately needs to be revisited because we are taking far too many people and things far too seriously. Relax. Finally, be brave. Be brave and open up to the world and people around you. If we are brave and open, we may very well come to realize that there is nothing to be afraid of and therefore nothing to hate. If we are brave and open, we can begin to understand and begin to love.

“Be tolerant with one another and forgive one another whenever
any of you has a complaint against someone else.
You must forgive one another just as the LORD has forgiven you.”
-Colossians 3:13-