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
Those who cannot renounce attachment to the results of their work are far from the path.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of detachment from the outcomes of our efforts in order to remain on the right path in life.
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi highlights a core philosophical principle that true commitment to one's actions requires detachment from the results. By suggesting that those unable to let go of their attachment to outcomes are straying from their path, Gandhi advocates for a focus on the process of doing good work rather than being overly concerned with success or failure, which can lead to anxiety and distraction. This approach encourages individuals to act with integrity and purpose, regardless of the external results of their labor.
Themes
AttachmentResultsPathDetachmentWork
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about pursuing passions, one might quote Gandhi to encourage an audience to focus on their efforts rather than the results.
More from Mahatma Gandhi
All quotes βLove never claims, it ever gives. Love ever suffers, never resents never revenges itself.
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Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.
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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.
Mahatma GandhiRead
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