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
Many an individual has turned from the mean, personal, acquisitive point of view to one that sees society as a whole and works for its benefit. If there has been such a change in one person, there can be the same change in many.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of shifting from self-centeredness to a focus on societal welfare.
Mahatma Gandhi's quote reflects the transformative power of perspective in individuals. It suggests that when one person shifts their viewpoint from being selfish and self-interested to considering the well-being of society, it demonstrates the potential for change within others, implying that collective transformation is possible when individuals adopt a broader, more altruistic outlook.
Themes
SocietyTransformationAltruismBenevolenceSelflessness
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used during a community service event to inspire volunteers.
More from Mahatma Gandhi
All quotes →Love 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.
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