It is better to discuss things, to argue and engage in polemics than make perfidious plans of mutual destruction.
Mikhail GorbachevRead
Sufis teach that we first must battle and destroy the evil within ourselves by shining upon it the good within, and then we learn to battle the evil in others by helping their higher selves gain control of their lower selves.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes inner transformation as a prerequisite to addressing external conflicts.
Feisal Abdul Rauf reflects on the Sufi perspective that personal growth and the overcoming of internal struggles are essential steps before one can effectively engage with and assist others. By cultivating the goodness within ourselves and confronting our own evils, we become better equipped to encourage and elevate the higher selves of those around us, promoting a cycle of positive change in the world.
Themes
Self-ImprovementInner PeaceCompassionGoodnessTransformation
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a discussion about personal growth and self-awareness at a community workshop.
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