"Dealing With The Thoughts Of Hate Towards MAGA"

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I'm an Anglican Priest in the Diocese of Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island (my pronouns are he/him/his) and I get to serve in the Parish of St Margaret of Scotland, in the beautiful city of Halifax, NS, that sits on the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi'kmaq people. Email me at [e-mail] and I will do my best to respond.
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[@melindaunknown6411]

I volunteer at a food bank on Tuesdays. Been there for 4 years. Full of MAGA volunteers. They are allowed to talk politics but not anyone who disagrees. Yesterday, I walked out. I have had to do it before when a Qanon woman told me I was stupid for getting a covid shot and wearing a mask. I’m so tired.

[@tianikane3312]

Oh boy, can we relate to this. Our thoughts are with you. Enjoy your rest. Maybe later, pick up somewhere else that has a healthier environment. We are not alone with this crap that is permeating this world at the moment. Luv ya.

[@CallieCatCuddles]

My personality/brain/ego sometimes gets me into trouble... I immediately thought, with a very serious face, tell them you prayed and prayed about this, and God told you to walk away from stupid people... and then turn and walk away. 😅 My sense of humor can get me in trouble if I don't keep a tight reign on it. 🙄

[@libbycollins9349]

They must have some heart or they wouldn’t be there volunteering to feed people. Hang in there and don’t let it get to you. The weekly foodshelf where I have volunteered weekly for over 6 years is a place of joy. We feed over 300 families weekly. Maybe there is a place that is less joy killing where you can volunteer. On the other hand, God may have put you there as a secret ambassador for Jesus to spread his love and soften their hearts, peace to you.

[@melindaunknown6411]

Thank you all for offering understanding and advice. There are other places I can go volunteer. My fellow democrat, who is 86, called me and asked me to stay. He started crying. It broke my heart. I have already decided to leave when he does, but he is not ready. Please, pray for me. Again, thank you all. ❤️❤️❤️

[@dad15241]

You can't fix stupid.

[@amybrown6540]

At my second church last Sunday, the Pastor said something to the effect of “Hate for someone else doesn’t hurt them. It hurts you.”

[@kevinduffy7383]

I would modify that to say "hate doesnt hurt people who also hate"

[@thomasnaas2813]

@@kevinduffy7383 I disagree. I think that it just magnifies the hatred, or it least it can, I mean, nothing is 'cut and dried' when it comes to human relations.

[@jerometaperman7102]

Your second church? One isn't already too many?

[@amybrown6540]

@@jerometaperman7102, I’m a musician. I play for an early service at one church and am the choir director for another church.

[@jerometaperman7102]

@@amybrown6540 - Sounds fun.

[@sfrjenkins]

It’s so very hard here in Texas. I’m part of the LGBTQ and it’s becoming scary. I have had more hate thrown at me than ever in my life since the MAGA movement has started. I have a person in my own family that has called me a groomer and has actually stated all those who won’t vote for Trump should either leave the country or suffer the consequences. I’m scared to really know what consequences they are speaking of. I am trying so hard to keep the hate out of my heart. Thank you for your words.

[@florence9556]

I am an LGBTQ+ ally (2 kids trans, the third gay) and a woman in Texas. We are planning to leave next year when my youngest graduates high school, but we’re transplants, not natives, so that’s easier for us. I am so sorry you are having to go through this. I pray for the arc of history to bend towards justice - sooner, rather than later.

[@sfrjenkins]

@@florence9556 We may have to leave soon as well. It breaks my heart as I am 3rd generation born in Austin but it’s getting dangerous. Texas used to be a “live and let live” type of place. Not anymore.

[@WillTerrell]

I have many friends in the community here in west texas and I have heard awful stories of how some have been treated. Also many kind stories. Either way It must be very hard experiencing what you are at this time. May you be comforted, my friend. May you be fearless in your own presence. May you always belong where you are. May you be safe. May your days be blessed and your path be guided.

[@sfrjenkins]

@@WillTerrell I’m a nurse here in Texas and hate to leave my home. Thank you for your kind words and may you be blessed in your life.🙂

[@WillTerrell]

@@sfrjenkins I've had several LGBTQ nurse friends move to NM or CO in the last year because they are worried. You are not alone. But also know there are many that are still here fighting for something greater for all. Do not lose heart. It is when things are the most challenging that we become our greatest selves. May we all be blessed by this time.

[@laklinlee]

Feelings of hate and anger towards MAGA is a struggle for me. I lost my family because of MAGA, it is the all too common story, if I don’t support Trump, I’m evil and was never saved. It’s hurts a lot that my family views supporting Trump as more important than me and to think such horrible things about me. I get angry when Republicans justify their support for Trump because they are afraid for their family. I want to scream, oh please, you enabled and continue to enable Trump. Trump has been effective in demonizing anyone who is not MAGA. I hear Republicans more and more talk about tribunals and the death penalty for those who don’t support Trump. We think it can’t happen here because this is America. They are saying it out loud.

[@paulaw3399]

If they were true Christians, they would not be going along with trump.

[@gatedude07]

Yes, they are the single greatest threat facing our nation. I have trouble with this video because there comes a point where I can't have empathy for the person anymore. As the saying goes, if you have 11 people knowingly sitting down to lunch with a nazi, then you have twelve nazis.

[@rhondalush1206]

I lost family to Covid too. I totally blame Trump and his administration too. I had to watch live streams of two funerals from Europe. At my aunt's almost no one at her funeral even wore a mask. I have unfollowed most of my cousins and some friends because I just can't stand to see what they post. One cousin unfriended me because I said I didn't want him to send me any more political things. After almost two years he has reachec out again. We are talking but no politics. I hate how that orange idiot has torn our country and families apart. Listening to Rev. Travors is one of the few things that helps me keep from being so angry.

[@sues6847]

Way I see it, I can spend my life hating people or I can spend my life helping people. I don't follow any book...just my heart.

[@allwinds3786]

I understand that my hate hurts me, but,as a transwoman these people want me dead.

[@lilianfowler7988]

I hear you.

[@catherineleon8221]

Prayers for your safety and protection.

[@denisemayosky1955]

Focus on taking care of yourself. Don't let them beat you down, hon! They're being riled up to hate by those with evil agendas. They know not what they are doing.🏳️‍⚧️🏳️‍🌈

[@thomasnaas2813]

I hope you find refuge from the harassment of the unenlightened. You might find somewhere else to live, (if it's even possible for you), but if the harassment is coming from social media then it's inevitable that you will get hate from people from all over, as well as bots that these trogs have put out there. Hate bots? Why not peace, love and understanding bots; is that so impossible?

[@allwinds3786]

@@catherineleon8221 thank you.

[@thegreengator71]

Hate begets hate. Break the cycle.

[@dkyelak]

MAGA wants to break YOU. This is no game.

[@aimeekincer7489]

I needed this. Its very hard, but it seems more to me like anger than hate. I'm struggling with the rage it gives me.😢

[@mamajotobin]

You are such a good man Ed! I’m sitting here with a lump in my throat and inspiration in my heart. Thank you ❤

[@warrenpeterson6065]

I was severely abused as a child for roughly 13 years. Jumping ahead: I entered adulthood full of hate & rage, not towards everyone, but towards those who acted like my abusers. Those days are now gone fortunately ... after extensive self help and therapy. The advise my Psych gave me then is exactly the same as what Rev Ed offers here and I'm a prime example that it works. Kudos Rev. So, I've dealt with my hate, now I have to deal with the fear, dread, and feelings of impending doom. 👋😎 My 2-nickels.

[@trappedinamerica7740]

Is your fear of impending doom related to the political situation like mine is?

[@warrenpeterson6065]

@@trappedinamerica7740 Yes. Far more towards the MAGA movement than any others. The Bush Republicans caused the worldwide financial meltdown of 2008. Then Obama was elected and this seemed to blow the minds of the US's nasty underbelly. Trumps conspiracy theory that Obama was not born in the US was spread far and wide by Republicans. Then far right wackadoodle news agencies popped up everywhere on social media courting the nasty underbelly I spoke of earlier. And now they are unified and have taken control of the Republican Party from top to bottom. The harm they could do to not only the US but to the rest of the world is just frightening.

[@cowgirljane3316]

Hate doesn't change the person you hate. It only changes you.

[@ad-dx9gi]

Amen

[@rebeledvid]

It lets them win. Be strong.

[@GameFame1959]

@@cowgirljane3316 well said

[@ficialintelligence1869]

Tell that to their victims after Trump wins ... the ones who are still alive.

[@janinegrey6937]

We were just talking about this at breakfast. It has been my prayer since Trump was elected to find peace in my heart. Biden helped a great deal when elected but here we are again. The hate is everywhere!

[@Left_hand_clapping]

I am with you. I thought people would move on after 2020 and MAGA would fade away but alas here we are again as you said. I'm hoping for brighter days again. Hope is a good thing. Peace to you.

[@c1886]

It just keeps coming back 😔

[@gatedude07]

The only way we will ahve peace is if the movement is stopped. Otherwise they will keep trying, over and over with increasingly brutal methods until they win.

[@kariburlon5790]

THANK YOU to whomever asked this question.

[@philiplombardo4332]

It's not the hate that have for them it's their behavior that is disrespectful, so I have no respect for them.

[@denisemayosky1955]

Exactly!

[@chaosmarklar]

I actually feel sorry for maga cultists, i studied cults in college a few years after Jonestown and I see the same behavior and paranoia and hate that led to the tragedy in Guyana

[@rosemarymceathron4037]

You might feel sorry for them, but they are still dangerous.

[@nickchalmers9000]

​@rosemarymceathron4037 how are they dangerous?

[@takerefuge1]

@@nickchalmers9000 Because those who can make you believe absurdities can make you commit atrocities.

[@nickchalmers9000]

@takerefuge1 that is true. One only need to look at the history of the Bolchevik revolution to kmow that. Ehat absurdities are being pushed by the Maga crowd then that makes them so dangerous?

[@DesireeCoulter-bf9yd]

When you hate someone, then the part of you that hates them belongs to them.

[@karenmerritt6822]

It is so hard for me. I have three sons who lean trump, only my daughter feels the threat as I do. I’m angry that my son’s have been duped. I’m angry because they become haughty and condescending toward me because of my views. I’m angry because they have been led to believe I am stupid, and devoid of moral substance. I am so hurt by what has been done to my family that I am incapable of the type of empathy you speak of. I keep praying for this end.

[@liveintruth333]

You're so spot on about this, Rev. If we can just imagine how terrified a person must be to act so hatefully, we will be forced to some level of compassion. I follow a spiritual practice that teaches a simple process to follow when we encounter people who challenge our beliefs: offer a silent blessing that goes something like this: "I know you are an aspect of the Divine; I pray that you may know who you are, and how you may serve." Amazingly, I have found this to give me immediate relief from my own toxic feelings.

[@kellyharper367]

Thank you for sharing this prayer!

[@billnye69]

MAGA and conspiracies are the reason my Dad died. He stopped going to his doctor and started self medicating. They corrupted his thinking to the point that he thought his daughter was the enemy. (She's a nurse)

[@UnashamedCaliforniagirl]

That is just sad.

[@gatedude07]

The dad of one of my good childhood friends died of COVID. He was a pastor, and one of the very few pastors left I actually had respect for. As he lay dying of the virus in the hospital, his entire congregation was denying that it was killing him. I know that is the opposite of what he preached, but this entire congregation would rather listen to their political demagogues than to their own pastor, even to the point of his death. That entire church is one big maga cult building now. I just can't anymore. This movement is so damn harmful. It is terrifying to me because there is no amount of harm that is too much for them to inflict.

[@davidroberts9037]

Excellent response, great advice thank you for your guidance.💙 💙 💙 💙

[@jonigarciajg]

i was feeling a lot of anger towards society because of our lack of care for the homeless and working poor. I realized that my anger was my defense mechanism for deep sorrow and empathy for the homeless. Instead of allowing myself to feel the compassion that results in saddness I was focusing on anger. Ive since worked on thar and now at peace

[@TotsandPears721]

I had anger towards the group, but when I started thinking of the individually the anger subsided. On a different note I have immense anger toward the preachers.

[@Struthio_Camelus]

There is historical precedent for the MAGA phenomenon in 1930s Germany. The reconciliation work is still in progress there. The best we can do for our neighbors is try to limit the amount of folly they can vote for, and the things the nation will need to atone for in the future.

[@mobilityproject3485]

God willing, the worst of it is already past us

[@mobilityproject3485]

I think the church will be a great engine of reconciliation in a way we did not see in Germany. What these people really need is understanding of why they made their foolish decision (falling apart families, economic decline) and a story of how to recover that is not totalitarian.

[@kristinestout1170]

I admire your loving and caring approach to questions like this. I have hated a woman who took 2 of my grandchildren away from me after my daughter died. I started working on this hatred in exactly the way you spoke of here, trying to put myself in her place, empathetic toward her situation. It always helped eleviate of the worst angst caused by the hatred. I wonder if I could share with you what I have come to call my "Next Step". You see, the hurt was so deep, the suffering she caused so unwarranted, the hate kept returning. It was so hard to let it go because I could not sincerely forgive her. My daughter had just died very young, very violently, and this woman was a trusted friend and family member who lied to me to get custody of 2 of her children and then purposely shut me out. The raw pain of loss combined with betrayal just filled me with a blind rage, blaming all that pain on her. Anyway, through my studies I came across a wonderful concept involving the non-duality teachings, and now the forgiveness flows and the hatred is gone, as if it never happened. For me it was understanding this concept: life is like a play, and we are like actors, sometimes reading the script, sometimes improvising. It's sort of an, "All the world's a stage" thing. Have you ever watched a villain in a movie or play that you totally hated? I mean, really loathed? Were you actually hating the actor who played the villain? Or just the character he portrayed? In this way of seeing, God is like the actor, and we (specifically our personalities, or egos) are like the role. I came to realize that I was raging and hating nothing: just a character in a movie, who incidentally was performed by an actor with an excellence that surpassed any academy award winner you can think of! You can take this metaphor as far as you want, but the point here is that true forgiveness came to me when I saw there was never anything to forgive. Unconditional. My "enemy", this villain, was just playing their part, reading their script, to help me with my forgiveness practice, my spiritual growth, my rediscovery of Truth. Heaven is this realization. There are no more tears, as it says in Revelation, because Heaven treats it all as if it all never happened. Like waking from a bad dream. Yes, it stings. Yes, it seems so convincingly real. But all the good villains in all the best stories are just like that! Learning to see past the character into the reality of who my brother really is, has made all the difference. So healing. I believe we're all getting academy awards after our performances here! Anyway, I know you must work with a lot of hurting people, I thought you may find this helpful, something else to try when the hate seems insurmountable. Blessings to you!

[@revedtrevors4961]

Thank you for sharing this with. God bless you!

[@artfarty9822]

I really needed to hear this. As a recovering addict, I learned early on that resentment will kill us. The way to get rid of a resentment is to pray for the person place or thing that is causing us so much grief. Because think about it, as well stew in hate and resentment, the person we are obsessing on may not even have a clue, or care if they did. We are the ones feeling all the discomfort. It's hard to pray for people or groups of people we hate, but if we do it anyway and continue to do it eventually the negative feelings we have will not bother us anymore. But... that being said, vote and make sure everyone you know votes against maga The only way to put an end to this fascist movement, is to vote them down over and over and over..however many times it takes.

[@contrafax]

Anger is so blinding. I lived in anger and rage for a lot of years. Still something I must watch for.

[@melindaunknown6411]

When we hate, it causes us to waste precious time in our lives.

[@UnashamedCaliforniagirl]

So did I. It literally destroys you from the inside.

[@contrafax]

@@UnashamedCaliforniagirl Oh yes it does. I was holding those coals hoping I could throw them at my perpetrators and the only person I was hurting was myself.

[@PhecdaPlato]

If we can empathise with their FEELINGS we have a good start. It’s when we tell them they are stupid for feeling that way. Or stupid to think that way, they just become angry. It makes sense to me now. I’ve dealt with psychosis a few times. And what was happening to me, in my world was very real to me. It didn’t matter that it wasn’t real to them.. because either way I was being attacked.. and they were simply saying “No you aren’t. Your wrong. This is all your fault.” It made the situation in my mind 20 times more real.. because it justified what my delusional state was saying “they are against me too!” It wasn’t until a good counselor sat with me and believed my delusional place was just my way of trying to make sense of a trauma. He taught me the word antinomy. Where two things can be true at once. The interpretation shouldn’t be the focus in a crisis. So he heard me out. Calmed my fears. Made me feel safe. And he worked me back into reality. Sure I was on medication at first.. but, his ability to help me connect again… without telling me I was false or delusional was so much to me ❤ and made me trust him enough to listen to.. his side of the world

[@lifeisaprayer]

Love this. Applies to a situation I deal with

[@PhecdaPlato]

@@lifeisaprayer 🫶🏻 🥰 I appreciate you!

[@Faith-ko5eg]

I’m struggling to find any mercy for the cult members. Yes, I know most of them just want to belong but they are willing to be a traitor to our country to belong. They’ve had a decade to wake up. They don’t want to.

[@christinaheater2500]

Wonderful message. Needed this. Ty

[@donnaroberts164]

Oh I so needed this video! Thank you! This spoke to me in a big way!

[@pamgrueber7343]

Amen, and thank you for being a voice of reason.

[@florence9556]

I can do this for the MAGA folks who have been duped by the right wing. I have a lot harder time with it for the leaders who seem amoral and/or sociopathic, who seem so much to be using their privilege and power towards their own ends rather than for the betterment of the world.

[@denisemayosky1955]

Think of how deceived they are, and how much in danger their very souls are! It's hard to be sympathetic towards them, I know, but they really are in great danger!

[@auntiebobbolink]

Important points. I long for the day when housed people can apply this kind of compassion to those of us who are unhoused.

[@CallieCatCuddles]

A pastor told me I could park my car in the church parking lot at night, and he'd notify the police that I had his permission to do so. A church going woman came over to me and imperiously told me that I shouldn't be there... there were places for people like me! I don't know what possessed me, but I responded, "What if I were Jesus reincarnated? How do you think he'd view your rebuke?" She turned and scurried off to the church while her adult daughter mouthed an apology to me as she followed her mother. Such a good christian, eh?

[@auntiebobbolink]

@@CallieCatCuddles I'm so sorry to hear this! Unfortunately, this is a common occurrence, and it is ignored and sanctified. I've experienced exactly the same thing. Notice that your response with your own experience doesn't get comments. You are the only one who responded to me. If we talk back, we are ignored. I'll get personal here... I have written to RevEd, asking him to get into the real facts of homelessness, to make this an issue. Educate people! It isn't just about giving out an old shirt and a can of corn... it is about a prejudice that needs to be brought out into the open and treated with the same kind of aggression as racism and gender. But... crickets. Silence. We must be silent no more! Thank you for sharing your truth!

[@auntiebobbolink]

@@CallieCatCuddles I'm sorry it took me a while to respond. The system wasn't letting me get through...

[@CallieCatCuddles]

@auntiebobbolink Thank you for replying to my comment. One thing I didn't mention and at a foundational level doesn't matter, but so many use as an excuse to denigrate people (drugs and alcohol), I ended up homeless because my military officer husband didn't like my disability, because I wasn't the same as before, I wasn't perfect any more. I wasn't an asset to his life any longer, so instead of getting help for me, he put our house in foreclosure, and I was evicted! I'm still not housed well, but I do have an RV. I just wished there was help for senior citizens living in such quarters, like there is if you own a sticks and bricks! I paid to have the roof mended to stop the leaks... only to have three major areas leak. Two of my small number of electrical outlets do not work, my propane leak sensor broke, and I haven't been able to use the shower since I moved in a year ago. It's been baby wipes and alcohol baths since then... no shampoos! I came from an upper middle class home, taught English overseas as well as modeled and taught modeling, helped with my husband's career, vacationed multiple times a year to foreign countries... if this can happen to me, it can literally happen to anyone who's not filthy rich! I've been fortunate in many ways, but others... how do they survive?!

[@auntiebobbolink]

@@CallieCatCuddles Thank you for sharing more of your story, and YES, it does matter! We are ignored and disdained at every turn. Our voices are not heard. Even your heart-wrenching story doesn't get responses. That shows a lot about who these people are who claim to "care". My story is also one of disability, something that is totally left out of all conversation. It's only about "wages". "Working poor". The rest of us can go eat dirt. I'm so sick of it I can hardly even form the words. But yet they demand our votes! We need to come together and support each other, because we sure aren't going to get it from "progressives" or churches!

[@ad-dx9gi]

Further comment Wanted to share where I live a lot of houses have a sign that says Hate has no Home here and it shows ethnic and Religious symbols, Peace to all..The other thing is you can't be a Chump either we have stand up for whats right , the Truth and Human Rights... Standing up to a Fanaticism Politically is the right thing to do..Back In WW2 we had to Stand up to the Nazis to Free the World. Maga is fantic politics It just Two Hates don't make a right.. God Bless 🕊️

[@dena6254]

I have had those feelings too, toward MAGA. I lost my 35 years old daughter during this hard time also! It’s been tough to deal with all of this! I pray often for empathy, wisdom & forgiveness.💕

[@sbcee2220]

I appreciate trying to help with this subject particularly. Personally, this feeling is something I have to check and ask forgiveness for daily. It's something I work on daily. I do feel bad that I'm not making good headway resolving it within myself. Thank you for your words, though, Rev. Trevors.

[@yabits]

The word that best describes this reflection's impact on me: "edifying."

[@margaretinsydney3856]

Reading this line of comments has been an eye-opener. It's one thing to know that "families are divided" but actually hearing about particular families is so troubling and sad. And I fear that division and pain won't go away anytime soon. May God bless all these suffering families. 🙏

[@mariakollar5518]

Intellectually I know that every human on the planet is a beloved child of God. I hold on to that and struggle. So I pray for their redemption, that their awareness is raised, that they repent and change their ways...and I pray for them...and for myself that I act on the knowledge that they are loved.

[@urfrndjenn]

Great message. You are absolutely right, many people who seem to do wicked or evil things may be suffering themselves and that pain is being projected onto others. Healing that pain they feel can be the first step on them becoming better people and happier people at that.

[@user-fx5vm6hu9t]

Careful not to slip into codependency. Been there and done that. Some people love their demons. We can love toxic people but not enable them. Only Jesus can deliver some people. Sad but some people love to be cruel on purpose without apologizing, repentance or an admission of wrong doing. We can feel empathy knowing God has been merciful and forgiving to us and pray for them.

[@edbudzynski729]

I belong to a Veterans organization. While I believe in vets standing together to deal with our issues but a few MAGA make me feel unwelcome. I paid my dues both figuratively and literally but I decided to just not associate with them anymore. Same for on line platforms like KZbin. I only respond to those who talk civilly.

[@VelmaTheID]

I needed to hear this.

[@SJTGirl-vx6wf]

I needed this so much, thank you Ed.

[@williammccallum1550]

Thank you for your KZbin channel. I wish I lived closer to your church.

[@Dalekzilla]

Father Ed. That was actually my question on the live feed that you just responded to. Thank you so much. Your words, as usual, do help. It's an ongoing process with me. These feelings, as you say, are indeed toxic, and I believe that true Christians are called to pray for, and at least try to feel some degree of love, for our "enemies". I know what these people dream of, and how they would like to hurt and punish people they "disapprove" of, how they would like to treat migrants, and the poor, and minorities, and LGBTQ people.....but that is still no excuse for hating them. Your words have given me a renewed determination to give these dark feelings up, and endeavor to feel some empathy for them. I will continue to oppose them, and their perverted version of Christianity, but I need to concentrate on what Christ has told me to, and let the rest of this.....go.

[@millettesmart3784]

Beautifully spoken from the heart! The Lord God will use your experience for His glory! I can see you counseling and being a listening, compassionate ear to others who are dealing with the same issue. God always works all things for our good. He turns our pain into passionate purpose ❤🙏🏼

[@Dalekzilla]

@@millettesmart3784 Thank you for your blessed words. God bless you.

[@pattyamato8758]

I feel especially angry toward two local "faith leaders" who manipulate their congregations, who lie and cruelly mock good people as part of "worship", all in support of an evil man and maga. Part of my anger is that it seems so disrespectful and dismissive of Jesus. It twists Christ's sacrifice and teaching into something hateful

[@alicemcpherson7961]

Thank you Rev Ed. This answered a huge question for me. God bless you 🙏

[@loveblue2]

Thank you for this beautiful and profound video. I see frequent references of hate for Donald Trump on social media; some in the Facebook groups I belong to. I try to gently share that hatred never creates anything that is good. And, just as important, our mind and bodies cannot tell the difference between the hate we have for others from self-hatred. All hate does is destroy. So glad I found your channel, Rev. Ed. I feel grounded after I watch your videos. And, your teachings leave me feeling like, "...ok; I got this." God bless you. 💕

[@markmountjoy3636]

Your words remind me of what James said, "The wrath of man does not work the righteousness of God" The Zealots fighting against the Roman Empire had to learn that lesson the hard way: Look at what happened at Masada!

[@mary-car]

I love it when you give the blessing towards the end of your videos. It brings peace. Thanks Rev. Ed

[@yabits]

Perhaps one could expand the meditation to the "king" of MAGA himself. If ever there was someone who can be described as "gaining the world and losing one's soul." I don't believe the man has a genuine friend in his life -- and wouldn't recognize one if one was there. (Not sure I'd want to hug him yet.) Applying for a job at a fast food restaurant: Q: "Have you ever been convicted of a crime?" A: "Yes, multiple felonies.... and sexual assault." Result: "I don't think we can hire you.... Sorry." And yet, "qualilfied(???)" to lead the most powerful nation on earth?

[@sandyjohnson5111]

I say a quick prayer. “God, help me see them through your eyes”. Hate is like a black poison pumping through your veins. It destroys you, not the person you hate.

[@lilianfowler7988]

I work in customer service and have to keep my opinions. I try to treat people with dignity and respect. Their hats and shirts with "eff" so and so are so sad and angry and pathetic. They are often the rudest and difficult. I really want to tell them so. I am not allowed to say a word. It is frustrating. My empathy has been used against me by people like this. I wish them no harm but I know hurt people hurt people. It is a struggle.

[@JamieAnnInTheWorld]

I needed this on so many levels in my life right now. Thank you Rev!! ❤ Amen

[@ejtappan1802]

I'll be honest... I am far less consumed by thoughts of hate than of thoughts of fear. These ignorant fools are going to destroy everything and do it all while thinking they are on the right side of history. It is beyond frustrating! -- I'm reminded of a quote from Star Trek (the original series)... McCoy says, "I've found that evil usually triumphs - unless good is very, very careful." And that's exactly how I feel right now... like we are teetering on a knife's edge, and my anxiety is through the roof.

[@mtm00]

1:00 When dealing with thoughts of hate, the first thing to do is FORGIVE YOURSELF for having those thoughts: have love and empathy for your self. The second thing to do is listen to (or put on paper) the thoughts you're having - get them out of your head to be able to be more objective. Then follow Rev. Ed's instructions re: empathy. And, if you can, find the time in your own life, where you yourself have done what you now hate witnessing in those others. And then, again, forgive yourself.

[@terribell5158]

I, too have struggled with how to love well people who may make choices that could negatively affect my life and the lives of millions of Americans. Timely topic.

[@HelosWorldRailroadReseller]

I wish you would do a video on the Governor of North Carolina race. He’s a “pastor “. He recently said something about killing those of different opinions. Thanks for all you do.

[@cbrashsorensen]

Thank you so much for this. I work very hard to keep my heart from becoming hard as a rock but it is not always easy. I don't want to live in a "bubble of like-minded people" but I have had to walk away completely from my Evangelical family and a few friends. This is SO hard on your soul--just exhausting. Thank you though for helping me to see more clearly.

[@KathleenMascher-yq9qy]

A priest told me a few years ago when u have anger/ hate etc even if its justified what we as followers of Christ should pray” bless him/ her, change me”…. I have used his advice and it works. Everytime I get those tjoughts and feelings I automatically think “ bless him, change me”. At first its not easier but gets easier over time.

[@johncaro2485]

Hate is a self-destructive emotion, but disgust evolved to keep us from eating shit. Substitute disgust for hate and protect yourself

[@b.questor]

I'm left-handed and aging, empathy escapes me sometimes, and then there it is again like a third eye, with God's grace. Thanks for your message.

[@garynicolas]

I love how articulate and thoughtful you are.

[@scj2117]

Thank you. It is hard working with people who have learned to fear (expressing it as hate) others.

[@garylett1745]

I’ve been carrying around anger and hatred for some in my life. Thank you for your guidance.

[@binkybillbaby]

Thank you 🙏💝

[@kevinjohnson7839]

Amen 🙏 thank you ❤

[@c1886]

So true!! Amen

[@shellyrhazeleur6029]

Best answer I have ever heard. I have been watching you. You talked to me heart, and said some things that made me really think after I listened. So thank you. I too struggle with my feelings about Trump and his people. Can I go out on a limb and ask how to find empathy with Trump. I try to imagine what he feels and struggle to do that. I am an empathetic person. I try and go into his childhood, but I can’t even imagine. I can for other narcissists, but at no time can I imagine him feeling sad, or scared, or hurt.

[@thomasnaas2813]

Hatred is the great destroyer. Hate often harms the hater more than the hated, at least spiritually. It can't be allowed to fester, and only if we stop it in our own hearts can we heal the deep seated wounds of centuries.

[@brianmarcum8306]

Amen!

[@captaincrane2221]

Hate... Remember Christ, and his disciple forgave Paul! We shouldn't hate them just because my beliefs are challenged.

[@sirius1075]

Amen

[@kittywalker2944]

Huge, giant, amazing props to you, if you can make yourself want to hug Trump. Luckily for myself, detesting these people is not a ‘sin,’ but it is unhealthy bc of the negativity and I’m not happy about it. The best I can do is to just hate their politics and ignorance, and find something relatable in them. 🇺🇸💙

[@8mc502]

Healthy boundries!

[@humblemonkm61]

❤

[@timothyoo7]

I had to drive from Portland Or. out to McMinnville, which is a very small, rural town surrounded by farms, ranches... I remember looking around at the stark differences and instantly knew that it was Trump territory. My second thought was, "Well, of course it is!" There is very little diversity, it is extremely conservative, and undoubtedly not very progressively minded. Very, very little has changed in the decades since my childhood, when I would visit my grandparents ranch. I could completely empathize with people only watching Fox News, the conversations at the diner or the feed store. People are in a very serious information silo out that way. I hadnt talked with anyone, or had any interactions, it was just obvious by my surroundings. Have I held on to that revelation? Not completely, but its helped.

[@dp0004]

Empathy can open a door that wouldn't otherwise be opened. It's hard stuff.

[@ad-dx9gi]

Thanks Rev Ed,Hate is never the Answer, Hate doesn't fix anything. You Disagree with Maga there wrong Philosophy and Doctrine..I agree with you Empathy helps give understanding... Dislike something is not Hate ..Hate and fear can work together A lot of us Have fear of what Maga will do it becomes scary.. Jesus said Love your Enemies It's gives us how to Reason.. God Bless 🕊️

[@ingehanson]

That reminds me of journalists going out there and interviewing MAGA folks. Most are very confrontational and not helpful. but there was one interviewer who calmly explained certain things to a woman, giving proof or where she could find it. The woman said: "Wow, I did not know that". There was no ill feelings on both sides and maybe the woman will look into things to get a bigger picture.

[@Kram21265]

Thank you Rev. Ed for your important and timely message. Making the world a better place.

[@gabriellebeverly7604]

Praying for them and myself

[@hughobyrne2588]

"I had nothing but animosity and anger" - Thank you for expressing this, the way you do. It's possible to have passions, it's possible to have your passions really, really inflamed, and still be able to - perhaps, only after a time, but still possible, after a time - to talk about strong, impassioned *real* feelings, and still not be *ruled* by them. Yes. Have those feelings. You have them. You do. It's real. It's important. It needs recognizing, it needs acknowledgement, it needs expression. And there are effects, and consequences. And you can still have love in your heart, primarily. And you can, though it's difficult, and a long road, for the consequences to be... reconciliation - well, not that, not realistically, not immediately, but at least, a motion in that direction. Love, unity. You're an inspiration.

[@bellilly]

amen

[@Kim-bt5tf]

Anger and hate will eat us alive!

[@robbylock1741]

I do not hate those that have fallen into the trap of the MEGA cult. What I feel is a great sadness that they have fallen to their own hate towards others.

[@dawnjohnson8739]

Reverend Trevors - Is it possible for you to post times for live events and compline in your description section? I seem to be missing everything and I want to tune in. And that “coming soon” posting would be hugely appreciated - a heads up. Thank you!

[@revedtrevors4961]

Thank you. Yes I will make some adjustments. BTW today at 1 PM AST (in 5 mins)

[@DDubovsky]

And therein lies the rub. What do you do once the empathy finally evaporates?

[@LimeyRedneck]

💜

[@simontemplar3359]

I had coffee with my pastor on the day Kyle Rittenhouse was acquitted, and to say I was mad about it, well... that doesn't cut it. He said to me that the thing about anger is that it can sometimes start from a place of righteousness, but the danger of it is that it easily becomes self righteousness, and that is dangerous. I let that mull around for a long time. I knew he was right about it and I knew that I definitely can get very self righteous very quickly. I know it is sinful, and I pray and ask for forgiveness when it happens, and I intend to not let it happen again, but of course it happens again. I personally have been guilty of going from being so angry that people agree with maga to being angry AT people who agree with maga. And to be honest with you, I thought and said some very hateful and evil things. Of course I made it sound like a joke, but I meant it. I won't repeat it here, but suffice it to say, it was not very Christ-like at all. That got me thinking. Now I had to ask where this comes from, and of course the answer is within myself. But I can't help but think that there are indeed demonic forces in the world. And I can't help but think that's how they get you. They whisper in your ear about how that person is awful to think that, and I'll bet they... and on and on and on. And the more you hate these people or anyone else really, the more your eyes are off Christ. And look, I'm a confessional Lutheran, so I'm not talking works-merit, but I think it's important to at least be open to the idea that there are dark and evil forces in the world who have nothing else to do but watch for ways to draw you away from Christ. They will prey on your fears, hopes, vanities, even your faith. They will use them against you, and God forbid one finds oneself about to do a horrible thing convinced that the thing is done in the spirit of the Kingdom. That begs the question: of whose kingdom are we speaking? It's all about not judging. Christ warns us and we disregard Him at our peril. Not only because it's a rotten thing to do, but because the deeper implication is that it destroys our faith. In the moment we judge others, we usurp a prerogative that belongs only to Almighty God Himself. And in that moment, the satan has basically nudged and whispered and collaborated with your lesser impulses and convinced you to commit the ultimate act of idolatry of self. To try to usurp a right that belongs only to the Son to judge... imagine! What utter folly. And then the satan can accuse us of it and we will not only be guilty of it, but we will have given up our one Advocate and Mediator: Jesus Christ. Like we're going to be all like "yoink!" and it's going to be all good. Please. God doesn't compel us, and satan cannot compel us, but look who our sinful flesh and minds listen to. Me above all else. I won't argue with St. Paul over who is the most awful sinner, but I'm well up there. I'll end it here: it is impossible to look down on others when you're laying at the feet of Jesus. Jesus who warned us that indeed we will have travail in this life just as the Apostles did, but like them, we must take heart. He has overcome the world. I'm voting for Joe, but I'm with Jesus. Because He has never abandoned me, no matter how much of a self righteous butthead I can be.

[@CaptainSpiffari]

In all fairness, I DO think Kyle Rittenhouse's act was self-defense. I don't think he necessarily took the best option, and he shouldn't have been in Kenosha to begin with, but he didn't instigate the incident. He _was_ attacked first. By the way, I'm not a fan of Rittenhouse. He's been on a glory hound media attention trip ever since he was acquitted, and apparently, in recent news, has not helped his family that is facing eviction. I also think the incident and media attention (both the media smearing AND the worship he's gotten from the right) has made him rather insane. (Keep in mind he was still a teenager when the incident happened).

[@simontemplar3359]

@@CaptainSpiffari That really wasn't my point. Your points are well taken and well said, but if anything other than Christ stood out from my post, I've failed spectacularly.

[@CaptainSpiffari]

@@simontemplar3359 Oh your comment wasn't bad. It's just that the Kyle Rittenhouse incident was the first thing mentioned. In fact, consider the differences of opinion and nuance even within the same side on issues like that to be another example of why hatred can be really bad. (Hunter Avallone, a notable conservative-turned-liberal/leftist defended him even after fully switching to the liberal side)

[@simontemplar3359]

@@CaptainSpiffari That's definitely true. Imagine how much evil loves to watch people hating each other and the chaos and mess it causes. Good thing God gave us 2 ears and only 1 mouth! :)

[@millettesmart3784]

Beautifully spoken! Thank you for blessing our hearts! ❤🙏🏼

[@roberthopgood1894]

no freaking way can i "imagine" what the hell they think or why

[@mdyalsoverton6590]

Thank You Reverend. I heard you. Above all else, get understanding. Love them, ALL of them and Love in Advance. Jesus Knew who Judas was Long before the kiss. I don't know how to forgive others the way I have been forgiven, But Grace is enough, and I can Pardon.

[@BigFish0047]

Hate? Where does the hate come from? These people may be full grown adults psychically but make no mistake, they are children. They haven’t developed mentally and need help. Frustration, sure! But hate? How can you hate children?

[@randallpickering9944]

Because these "children" vote and want a Theocracy. You're correct, we shouldn't hate.

[@BigFish0047]

@@randallpickering9944 I know. Its scary. Makes you question the right to vote given so freely.

[@dkayres3823]

What helps me with negative feelings for those whose beliefs are polar opposite of mine, was when I realized that they are just people. And probably 'see' me in the same way I 'see' them. (now I sound crazy even to me 😂)

[@stevenelson2641]

Missus says: I struggle with this too and am a Catholic so take it to confession and talking that over with my confessor helps. Someone else once said to me, "if it looks like that on the outside, imagine what it's like on the inside". Can you imagine that with some of the things these people say and do??!! I'll never forget that...Lord, don't let me become what I am fighting against.

[@revedtrevors4961]

whoa - yeah!

[@libbycollins9349]

My very good teacher used to say to hate the sin and love the sinner. Maybe that’s why we’re called to pray for our enemies, not just for their sakes, but for our own.

[@itsapseudonym568]

Forgiveness is a gift from God to the forgiver. The person who is forgiven doesn’t necessarily need to know that you’ve forgiven them because the true gift of God in forgiveness is the healing of the heart of the forgiver.

[@WordAte]

When I learned that hate was self-annihilation and not justice, I immediately stopped hating others. There is no benefit to hating others. Empathy, which is understanding how another person thinks and feels, is extremely empowering. Empathizing with a white supremacist permits me to point out the failure in his logic and show flaws in his worldview in a way that has the best chance to resonant with them, and more importantly, with the people he is trying to influence. Empathy does not mean acceptance of behavior. Acceptance does not mean acceptance of behavior.

[@silencesays228]

I have found that Metta Meditation has been very helpful dealing with feelings of hate.

[@WillTerrell]

I moved back to west texas during the pandemic and it has been this souls weary journey learning to forgive them. It contributed in part to the end of my marriage because their family and I could not understand one another on a spiritual level over their support for this man and I began to have contempt for people I love. I even went to church with them which made it worse because I felt so unwelcome everywhere I went. That's when I realized I was a hypocrite. Hating people for hating people and judging people for judging people. They were responding to my wounded-ness and hostility as much as I was to them. We are mirrors of one another. I had a lot of my own healing to do. I also had to remind myself that just because you have a conversation with someone does not mean they disagree with you. Sometimes you have to trust that they are listening they just don't want to feel like the enemy. We are at war. But it is not a war against one another. It is a war with no enemies. A war fought with only love. Starting within. Relentless kindness and selfless devotion to being the love in the world I want to see. Love changes peoples hearts. Words do not. Some people have never known that kind of love. It is our job to demonstrate what that feels like. Become hidden in him. Be LOVE(d)

[@millettesmart3784]

👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 I LOVE your beautiful blessed words of wisdom so very much! Thank you for sharing your beautiful spirit with us! 🥲❤🙏🏼

[@AlsanPine]

in case there was a question on why i am so very fond of you my dear rev ed, it is because every day i see the light of God in you. you always seem to talk about things i need to hear and revisit. as a real hermit, i do not have a very high regard for people, indeed, i prefer wild animals to my own species. for the most part, i consider most of humanity as parasites. just to put in perspective how incredible it is that you are so loved by this old fart!

[@veronicaharwick9013]

1 John 4:20 20 If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? 1 Peter 4:8 Above all, have fervent and unfailing love for one another, because love covers a multitude of sins [it overlooks unkindness and unselfishly seeks the best for others].