Hatred! Even the word sounds wicked. Its very nature wishes ill will on others. It poisons the souls of those who claim it and let it operate their lives. I’ve read about hatred and what evil actions it has promoted throughout history; often starting so innocently but becoming a destructive force on many levels. But never did I think I would see it acted out in the United States on such a broad scale AND such a personal one.

What has been the object and force for igniting such hatred? Many issues but mainly President Trump. Why? I am certainly aware of his personal faults which can be irritating and provocative, but there have been faults of “arrogance” among others in previous presidents whom I disliked and strongly disagreed with their policies – but never hated.

As did millions of citizens, I voted for President Trump and am not ashamed to admit it. A greatly flawed man – agreed – but one whose many policies I agree with: closing the border, seeking deportation of criminals, rooting out massive fraud, protecting our country, showing pride in our country, hiring competent people and firing those who are not. I could go on.

While we Americans can and do disagree, “viva independent thinking,” what I am finding is that I run into a wall of such hatred for President Trump and anyone associated with him, that reason and logic go out the window, and pure hateful emotion is what is left. I have experienced this in one form or another from local business and community leaders, teachers, people I consider friends, even people in our churches.

People say the hateful rhetoric which seems to fuel this emotional way of thinking and three attempts on the life of our president, is from both sides. Yes – but not equally. From the studies and polls I have read, it is more like 4 to 1, with what we call “the left” the most hateful of all.

Lincoln’s quoting of the Bible, “A house divided against itself cannot stand,” worries me about today. Our Western Civilization is based on laws and Judeo-Christian values of love, respect, logic and accountability. The path we are on now can only end in destruction, for our country, government but also for our community and relationships.