To forgive is not to forget. The merit lies in loving in spite of the vivid knowledge that one that must be loved is not a friend. There is not merit in loving an enemy when you forget him for a friend.
Mahatma GandhiRead
We should meet abuse by forbearance. Human nature is so constituted that if we take absolutely no notice of anger or abuse, the person indulging in it will soon weary of it and stop.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Responding to aggression with patience can lead to its cessation.
Mahatma Gandhi suggests that instead of reacting to verbal or emotional attacks with anger, one should practice forbearance or patience. By not giving attention to abuse, the aggressor may tire of their behavior, leading to an end of hostility. This reflects a deeper understanding of human nature and the dynamics of conflict, promoting a peaceful resolution over escalation.
Themes
ForbearanceAngerConflictPeacePatience
In practice
Example use cases
During a heated discussion about politics, one might use this quote to encourage friends to remain calm and avoid escalation.
More from Mahatma Gandhi
All quotes →Love never claims, it ever gives. Love ever suffers, never resents never revenges itself.
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The real test of nonviolence lies in its being brought in contact with those who have contempt for it.
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Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
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The devotion of such titans of spirit as Lenin to an Ideal must bear fruit. The nobility of his selflessness will be an example through centuries to come, and his Ideal will reach perfection.
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