Skip to content

I make it a practice to avoid hating anyone. If someone's…

“I make it a practice to avoid hating anyone. If someone's been guilty of despicable actions, especially toward me, I try to forget him. I used to follow a practice-somewhat contrived, I admit-to write the man's name on a piece of scrap paper, drop it into the lowest drawer of my desk, and say to…” quote by Dwight D. Eisenhower
Download Open image
“I make it a practice to avoid hating anyone. If someone's been guilty of despicable actions, especially toward me, I try to forget him. I used to follow a practice-somewhat contrived, I admit-to write the man's name on a piece of scrap paper, drop it into the lowest drawer of my desk, and say to myself: "That finishes the incident, and so far as I'm concerned, that fellow. The drawer became over the years a sort of private wastebasket for crumpled-up spite and discarded personalities. Besides, it seemed to be effective, and helped me avoid harboring useless black feelings."”

Dwight D. Eisenhower

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He discards grudges by writing names on paper and filing them away, preventing lingering negativity.

In simple terms: Writing down grudges helps release them.

Key Takeaway

Adopt a ritual to let go of resentment.

Themes

forgiveness emotional health self‑care

Mood

reflective calm

Type

advice philosophical

When to use this quote

  • journaling
  • meditation
  • therapy
  • conflict resolution

Key Concepts

psychological coping personal discipline mindfulness

Questions to Reflect On

  • What emotions surface when you release a grudge?
  • How can you ensure lasting forgiveness?
A Different Perspective

May not address underlying issues fully.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Dwight D. Eisenhower

Explore all 515 Dwight D. Eisenhower quotes

More Action quotes

Browse all 14,940 Action quotes