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
Non-violence is not a quality to be evolved or expressed to order. It is an inward growth depending for sustenance upon intense individual effort.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Non-violence stems from inner strength and personal commitment rather than external demands.
Mahatma Gandhi's quote emphasizes that non-violence is not merely a strategy or a set of behaviors to be applied superficially; it is a profound and ongoing inner development that requires significant personal dedication and effort. This inward growth reflects one's values and principles rather than conforming to societal pressures or expectations.
Themes
Non-ViolenceGrowthEffortPrinciplesInner Strength
In practice
Example use cases
During a speech on social justice, one could use this quote to emphasize the importance of internal resolve in advocating for peace.
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
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