“Always remember that others may hate you but those who hate you don’t win unless you hate them. And then you destroy yourself.”
- January 9, 1913 – April 22, 1994
- American
- The 37th President of the United States, Lawyer, Politician
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Quote
“Always remember that others may hate you but those who hate you don’t win unless you hate them. And then you destroy yourself.”
Explanation
In this quote, Richard Nixon delivers a powerful warning about the corrosive nature of hatred, particularly in the face of opposition or adversity. The key insight—“those who hate you don’t win unless you hate them”—suggests that harboring hatred allows your enemies to claim a deeper, moral victory. By giving in to resentment or vengeance, the target of hate becomes consumed by the same destructive force, leading to self-destruction rather than vindication.
This reflection likely emerged from Nixon’s own experience with political hostility, media criticism, and public scandal, especially surrounding the Watergate affair. He was a deeply polarizing figure, often suspicious of those he believed were working against him. Yet in this moment of clarity, he acknowledges that responding to hate with hate undermines one’s integrity and peace of mind. The quote reflects a lesson learned through personal pain, offering a rare moment of introspection from a leader often seen as combative and embattled.
In today’s world, where divisiveness, outrage, and personal attacks dominate much of public discourse—particularly online—this quote holds enduring relevance. It encourages individuals to resist becoming what they oppose, to maintain emotional discipline, and to uphold principle over retaliation. Nixon’s words remind us that strength is not found in hatred, but in the ability to rise above it, preserving dignity and purpose in the face of animosity.
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