We owe our children β the most vulnerable citizens in any society β a life free from violence and fear.
Nelson MandelaRead
Resentment is like a glass of poison that a man drinks; then he sits down and waits for his enemy to die.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Holding onto resentment harms the person who feels it more than the intended target.
This quote by Nelson Mandela illustrates the destructive nature of resentment, comparing it to drinking poison. The underlying message conveys that harboring negative feelings towards others ultimately affects the individual who feels this resentment, rather than harming the perceived enemy. It emphasizes the futility of allowing anger and hate to take control over one's peace and well-being.
Themes
ResentmentPoisonForgivenessAngerWell-Being
In practice
Example use cases
Including this quote in a motivational talk about letting go of negative emotions.
More from Nelson Mandela
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I dream of the realization of the unity of Africa, whereby its leaders combine in their efforts to solve the problems of this continent. I dream of our vast deserts, of our forests, of all our great wildernesses.
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