"I imagine one of the reasons people cling to their hates so stubbornly is because they sense, once hate is gone, they will be forced to deal with pain"

This quote by James A. Baldwin recommends that people often hold on to their hate because it is a way to avoid dealing with the discomfort they are feeling. Dislike can be an effective emotion that can be utilized to mask the discomfort that someone is feeling. It can be much easier to concentrate on the hate than to face the discomfort that is triggering it. People may likewise hesitate of what will take place if they let go of their hate and face the discomfort. They might be afraid of the vulnerability that includes facing their discomfort and the potential for additional hurt. Ultimately, Baldwin recommends that in order to move forward and heal, people should want to let go of their hate and deal with the discomfort that is causing it.