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
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.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Lenin's dedication to his ideals creates a lasting legacy that will inspire future generations.
Mahatma Gandhi reflects on the profound commitment that leaders like Lenin have towards their ideals. He suggests that this devotion not only holds the potential for significant impact during their lifetime but also sets an enduring example of selflessness and aspiration that can inspire generations to strive for their own ideals to reach a state of perfection. Gandhi emphasizes the nobility inherent in such sacrifices, indicating that the quest for an ideal transcends time, carrying lessons of dedication and purpose.
Themes
DevotionIdealSelflessnessLegacyInspiration
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about leadership, one might quote Gandhi to illustrate the importance of selfless dedication to a cause.
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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Poverty is the worst form of violence.
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