In a collection of personal anecdotes, various individuals share their enduring grudges against people, places, and even corporations. From childhood rivalries to adult frustrations, these stories reveal the depth of human emotions that can linger for years. The narratives explore how minor incidents can escalate into long-standing resentments, often fueled by perceived injustices or slights. Each story offers a glimpse into the complexities of human relationships and the power of unresolved grievances.

Mara Wilson, an actor and writer based in California, recounts her longstanding disdain for the state of Indiana. Her animosity began during high school when her competitive show choir from Burbank, California, consistently lost to choirs from Indiana at nationals. She noticed that nearly all the winning choirs and judges hailed from Indiana, leading her to suspect a potential bias. This suspicion was further fueled by subsequent encounters with individuals from Indiana, including a historically significant but troubling past involving the Ku Klux Klan. Despite efforts to find redeeming qualities during a Midwest tour, Wilson's negative perception of Indiana remained unchanged, solidifying her grudge.

The grudge against Indiana is not just about competition. Historical context plays a significant role in Wilson's resentment. During a history project, she discovered that Indiana was a hotbed for the resurgence of the KKK in the early 20th century, which coincided with the birth of her Jewish grandparents. This dark chapter in American history added another layer to her feelings. Even after leaving her show choir days behind, Wilson's experiences with Indiana persisted. A podcast tour through the Midwest only reinforced her views; while other states offered scenic beauty and friendly people, Indiana left her with memories of flat fields and unwelcoming environments.

While Mara Wilson's grudge is rooted in specific events and historical context, others have equally compelling reasons for holding onto their grievances. S.E. Cupp, a CNN commentator from Connecticut, severed ties with her gynecologist due to a perceived lack of respect. Similarly, Courtney, a writer from Arizona, has developed a strong aversion to a cashier named Mary at her local Circle K, who consistently treats customers poorly. These grudges highlight how small interactions can leave lasting impressions and shape our perceptions of others.

Grudges are not limited to interpersonal conflicts. Some extend to institutions or broader entities. Betsy Klein, a CNN White House producer, expresses disappointment over Taco Bell's decision to remove Cool Ranch Doritos Locos Tacos from its menu. For her, this snack held sentimental value, and its removal felt like an unnecessary change. Meanwhile, Kathy Griffin, a comedian, vents her frustration with people who never pick up the check, emphasizing the importance of fairness in social settings.

Ultimately, these stories illustrate the diverse and often irrational nature of human grudges. Whether fueled by personal slights, historical context, or corporate decisions, these grievances serve as reminders of the emotional weight we carry from seemingly trivial incidents. They also underscore the difficulty of letting go, even when the reasons for holding on may seem petty or insignificant to others. Each grudge tells a unique story of human resilience, frustration, and the complexity of our emotional lives.