People want us, or want us dead, because of what we are, not who we are. It's hard.
People's reactions toward us are often based on our inherent nature or identity rather than individual actions. This means that everyone is judged by what they represent, which can lead to misunderstandings or hostility simply because of who they are. Such perceptions can be challenging to handle emotionally and psychologically.
The quote emphasizes that the conflict or opposition we face stems from our intrinsic qualities rather than specific deeds. It underlines the difficulty of navigating a world where discrimination or suspicion arises from identity, making it a tough experience to endure and confront. The author highlights the complexity of human judgment and societal reactions to personal identity.