American author and human rights activist Kerry Kennedy frequently discusses how our emotional reactions are influenced by our choices. Kennedy, who was raised in a household that was steadfastly dedicated to civil liberties and social justice, has been involved in a number of initiatives that seek to advance understanding and peace.

She highlights that hateful sentiments are learned behaviors that are influenced by experiences and interactions over time rather than being innate. A person can unlearn anger or resentment toward others through deliberate effort and a commitment to personal development, just as they can learn to react in these ways.

Think of hate as a habit that forms, similar to smoking or biting your fingernails; it may begin small but, if left unchecked, can become deeply embedded. Overcoming hate requires the same awareness, willpower, and support that are needed to break a bad habit. It requires actively choosing empathy and compassion, identifying negative thought patterns, and making an effort to comprehend other people's viewpoints.

Kennedy's message is clear: with dedication and a willingness to change, it is possible to escape the cycle of hate, even though it may seem difficult. By encouraging people to examine their own attitudes and actions, this viewpoint promotes a way of thinking that aims to bring people together rather than drive them apart.