What is hate? Thinking of the word makes me cringe.
According to Merriam-Webster online, hate is 'a very strong feeling of dislike.' The full definition:
"a : intense hostility and aversion usually deriving from fear, anger, or sense of injury
b : extreme dislike or antipathy : loathing." Source
Hate is what causes people to hurt others. It has many expressions – racism, violence, war, terror. For the sake of this post, let us omit some of the more global derivatives of hate and focus on relationships.
Have you ever heard of someone being so in love proclaim unadulterated hate for that same person after a breakup? Have you been that person?
In truth, I do not believe that feeling, in this instance, is actually hate. I have another theory. Hate is a function of love.
Think about it.
It allows someone, whom you are no longer dating, to still be included in your life. If you hate them, they are still the object of your affection. It is just a different affection. You can justify to yourself allowing this person into your thoughts and into your heart. In essence, it is a way of holding on when you really need to let go.
Think of an ex, not just any ex, the worst ex that you have ever had. Ask yourself, do I hate him/her? If the answer is yes, then you have not gotten over this person. Barring some violent act against you or those you love, you may still even love that person.
*insert audible gasp* lol
Why am I writing about this you may ask? To help someone, to help myself. When someone exits your life, sweep the dust out of the front door. Leave no remnants – no letters, no bears and no hate.
The opposite of love is not hate. It is indifference.