I just can’t understand why some people seem to think haters are stronger or more intelligent than lovers, when love is the most powerful force in this world. I know that because I’ve experienced the awesome power of love, and it feels so wonderful it almost makes me want to burst with happiness. I hope you’ve all felt that kind of all-powerful, uncontainable, crazy love too. I hope we all know that love is the strongest force in the universe.

So I don’t understand how someone, who regularly makes himself or herself feel falsely stronger by putting somebody else down, could be admired. I, for one, don’t aspire to that kind of “strength.” In fact, I would rather be thought of as weak. I know I’m not weak, and I know what power animates my spirit! It’s love!

I truly believe when everyone realizes that, this world will be a better place. People will be happy. They’ll relax, and love one another and all things. There will be no reason to fear. There will be no reason to be a hater, because haters won’t get credit for being strong or smart.

I’m not saying it’s not right to fight for your convictions. If you see true injustice, work hard to right it. Just don’t let hate steal your compassion. Compassion is vital to our species.

And don’t let hate consume you. You’re the one that suffers most if you do. It’s been proven that hate can literally make you sick. It’s like a poison inside of you. How, then, could you ever be truly happy?

I suggest that if you are prone to hating, you instead devise a plan to win the object of your hatred over with your love. It might be a challenge at first. You might not want to love the hated one or ones, and you might feel angry just trying to do that.

I understand. I sometimes worry about the ones who don’t consider the health and well-being of our planet. But I don’t let myself hate them. I know that I have control of my emotions.

You have control, too. You can do this. You can be truly strong. Not because you hate a person or a group, but because you love.

Marcelle Hanemann is a reporter for The Daily News. You can email her at marcelle.hanemann@bogalusadailynews.com or call her at 985-732-2565, ext. 301.