"In hatred as in love, we grow like the thing we brood upon. What we loathe, we graft into our very soul"

Mary Renault's quote, "In hatred as in love, we grow like the thing we brood upon. What we hate, we graft into our really soul," reflects on the extensive effect of deep feelings on the human mind and character. At first glance, the parallel drawn in between hatred and love recommends that both emotions, however frequently seen in opposition, have a similar power to change and shape people based on where they direct their focus and energy.

The quote highlights the concept that whatever we obsess over, whether it is something we enjoy or dislike, undoubtedly ends up being a part of us. This improvement takes place since our continual attention and psychological financial investment efficiently braid the object of our focus into our identity and worldview. In love, this can manifest as growth and positive change; individuals frequently embrace traits or perfects from those they admire. The loved object or individual becomes a source of motivation and aspiration, resulting in personal advancement and fulfillment.

Nevertheless, Renault stresses that the very same process accompanies hatred. By brooding on what we hate, we inadvertently allow it to occupy space within our consciousness, shaping our thoughts, emotions, and even habits. This loathing becomes a poisonous graft within our soul; instead of diluting its existence by neglecting or resolving it constructively, we reinforce its influence. Hence, harboring hatred can cause a cycle of negative feelings and habits that mirror the extremely attributes or concepts one dislikes.

Renault's quote acts as a cautionary reminder of the power of focus and intention. It urges mindfulness of our emotional financial investments, motivating us to channel our energy towards love and understanding rather than hatred. By purposely choosing what we brood upon, we can cultivate a more favorable and satisfying inner life. Ultimately, this reflection invites us to think about the extensive reality that what we hold in our hearts and minds profoundly molds who we end up being.