"If there is darkness in the midst of light, there is also light in the midst of darkness, and if hatred can be fostered in the midst of love, love also can be fostered in the midst of hatred. If there is despair within hope, there is also hope in the midst of despair, and this simple fact can open for us a way out of inward crises and sombre moods."--- Carlos G. Valles: 'I Love You, I Hate You.'

Valles articulates here the very principle Jesus teaches His disciples. Jesus puts it this way: "Go to be reconciled with your brother first". (Matt:5:24). Jesus understands the intricacies of the human heart . He tries to make His disciples see that human relationships are complex and double-edged, so that where one is willing to change oneself first, one can then change others. One needs to know and understand one's own behaviour, realize one's own vulnerability, to avoid resentment and anger at another's weaknesses. This awareness of the mix of dark and light, of love and hatred in oneself is what is involved in the process of reconciliation with the other person.

This reconciliation is essential for God's love and mercy to play in one's life. As Ezekiel points out, God is more ready to pardon than to punish. Ezekiel stresses a personal responsibility for one's failings and he invites each person to a true repentance.