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
It is the acid test of nonviolence that in a nonviolent conflict there is no rancor left behind, and in the end the enemies are converted into friends.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Nonviolence transforms conflicts by fostering understanding and reconciliation without bitterness.
This quote by Mahatma Gandhi emphasizes that the true measure of nonviolent conflict resolution is its ability to eliminate resentment while transforming adversaries into allies. A successful nonviolent approach not only avoids physical violence but also nurtures positive relationships, leading to lasting peace and mutual respect.
Themes
NonviolenceConflictFriendshipPeaceTransformation
In practice
Example use cases
During a peace rally, this quote can be shared to inspire unity among diverse groups.
More from Mahatma Gandhi
All quotes βLove never claims, it ever gives. Love ever suffers, never resents never revenges itself.
Mahatma GandhiRead
Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.
Mahatma GandhiRead
The real test of nonviolence lies in its being brought in contact with those who have contempt for it.
Mahatma GandhiRead
Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
Mahatma GandhiRead
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.
Mahatma GandhiRead
Similar quotes
Settlements may be temporary, but the action of the nations in the interest of peace and justice must be permanent. We can set up permanent processes. We may not be able to set up permanent decisions.
Woodrow WilsonRead
Peace is not absence of conflict, it is the ability to handle conflict by peaceful means.
Ronald ReaganRead
My colleagues and I have gone in the footsteps of our predecessors since the very first day we were called by our people to care for their future. We went any place, we looked for any avenue, we made any effort to bring about negotiations between Israel and its neighbors, negotiations without which peace remains an abstract desire.
Menachem BeginRead
Let a Secretary of Peace be appointed.
Benjamin BannekerRead
A wall is a hell of a lot better than a war.
John F. KennedyRead
It's not going to be easy to create a world where both sides prefer peace, but we have to try.
Margaret MacmillanRead