How is it possible for people to be so evil and so good at the same time. Right now, as you read this, throughout the world the vilest, most sadistic, most depraved acts are being performed. Yes, at the same time, incredible acts of altruism, charity, love and self-sacrifice are being performed. It is hard to digest the pure evil and pure goodness that encompasses the capacities and activities of the human animal.

Our Gemara on amud beis Similarly notices the impossible and exasperating contradictions in the behavior of the Jewish people:

Rabbi Abba bar Aḥa said: You cannot discern the true nature of this people, as donations are requested for the Golden Calf and they give; and later, donations are requested for the Tabernacle, and they also give.

אָמַר רִבִּי בָּא בַּר אָחָא. אֵין אַתְּ יָכוֹל לַעֲמוֹד עַל אוֹפִי שֶׁלְּאוּמָּה הַזֹּאת. נִתְבָּעִין לָעֶגֶל וְנוֹתְנִין, נִתְבָּעִין לַמִּשְׁכָּן וְנוֹתְנִין.

Human nature is confounding. We all must be forgiving of ourselves and others noting that we are capable of the greatest depravity as well as supreme virtue. Don’t make the mistake of underestimating your capacity to sin as well as your capacity to do good.