Bitterness.

"Often the injustice of the situation in which people find themselves in create deep hurts, wounds in the spirit, and anger that is so near the surface that the individuals involved risk sinking into the trap of bitterness. Thoughts may turn inwards as they consider the unfairness of the situation and dwell on how badly they have been treated."

It is a painful place to be in. Bitterness is something that creeps up on you without realisation. It stems from unmet expectations, misunderstandings, and unresolved issues. I'm trying to think of an analogy here but none comes to mind, so *insert own analogy*.

I guess the key thing is to recognise it when it does creep up. It is an energy drainer that leaves you feeling really hollow. Not to say that you forget the situation of which it arose from, but rather to recognise the root cause of the emotion. Once you find the cause of it, it is much easier to look forward with hope.