If I don't like it, I don't like it, that don't mean that I'm hating.
-Common
Hater is a term that gets hurled in my direction a lot.
In fact, it's poised to take first place from ZBT-Faggot.
Often, I get called a hater after one of the two following scenarios:
A) I make fun of someone whose actions I disapprove of.
B) I cast doubt on the talent of the various aspiring DJ/Rapper/Singers/Bloggers in my age range or social group.
I hate being called a hater.
Why can't I think the kid making out with a magnum bottle of Pierre-Jouet in his facebook picture and tagging plates of Mr. Chow entrees is a douchebag? Why must I be "just jealous"?
Why can't I say the "rapper" I know can't actually rap, and that just being from my hometown isn't my sole criterion for work of art? Why must my detractor believe that "if (fill in faux artist here) wasn't popular, you'd like him."
(Note: I'm not talking about anyone in particular, really I'm not, my list of disapproval is as wide as Steve Buscemi's nostrils )
Since when has it become uncool to have a conscience?
I was brought up in a household of strong moral values. If I see something that contradicts those values, I don't ignore it because it may be offensive to some. It's okay. People can be shallow, Ideas can be stupid, and "The Good Life" may not be worth living.
However, I think there is definitely something wrong with being a contrarian.
If you hate everything because people like it, you're an elitist douche.
Furthermore, if you find something wrong within every instance of life, you are really cutting down your opportunities to experience joy.
And on some level, I do let it get the best of me.
I was ranting to my friend Sam about a mutual acquaintance whose excessive lifestyle is only matched by his pompous attitude. Sam cut me off.
"So?" he interjected.
"What do you mean so? He's a douche!"
"Okay, he is. So what? How does that affect your life in anyway? Why do you let it get the best of you?"
Sam was right.
I'm not a hater. But I do need to learn a little about coexistence.
