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.
Our duty is very simple and plain. We want to serve the community, and in our own humble way to serve the Empire. We believe in the righteousness of the cause, which it is our privilege to espouse. We have an abiding faith in the mercy of the Almighty God, and we have firm faith in the British Constitution. That being so, we should fail in our duty if we wrote anything with a view to hurt.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote emphasizes the importance of serving the community and upholding the principles of justice and mercy.
In this quote, Mahatma Gandhi articulates a profound sense of duty towards the community and the larger society, underscoring the importance of serving both the local and national interests with integrity and faith. He highlights that true service should be motivated by righteousness and compassion, reflecting a commitment to the values of the British Constitution and the guidance of a higher moral authority. Gandhi stresses that the act of writing or expressing one's views should never be intended to harm others but rather to uplift and support the cause of justice.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech addressing volunteers at a community service event.
More from Mahatma Gandhi
All quotes →Love never claims, it ever gives. Love ever suffers, never resents never revenges itself.
Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.
The real test of nonviolence lies in its being brought in contact with those who have contempt for it.
Happiness is when what you think, what you say, and what you do are in harmony.
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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I was honored to have an opportunity to speak on August 28th, 1963.