To be incapable of taking one's enemies, one's accidents…
““To be incapable of taking one's enemies, one's accidents, even one's misdeeds seriously for very long—that is the sign of strong, full natures in whom there is an excess of the power to form, to mold, to recuperate and to forget (a good example of this in modem times is Mirabeau, who had no memory for insults and vile actions done him and was unable to forgive simply because he—forgot). Such a man shakes off with a single shrug many vermin that eat deep into others; here alone genuine 'love of one's enemies' is possible—supposing it to be possible at all on earth. How much reverence has a noble man for his enemies!—and such reverence is a bridge to love.—For he desires his enemy for himself, as his mark of distinction; he can endure no other enemy than one in whom there is nothing to despise and very much to honor! In contrast to this, picture 'the enemy' as the man of ressentiment conceives him—and here precisely is his deed, his creation: he has conceived 'the evil enemy,' 'the Evil One,' and this in fact is his basic concept, from which he then evolves, as an afterthought and pendant, a 'good one'—himself!””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A noble person can quickly forget offenses, allowing love for enemies; this capacity stems from a strong, resilient nature.
In simple terms: Strong people easily forgive and love their foes.
Key Takeaway
Cultivate resilience to let go of grudges.
Themes
forgiveness
strength
love
ego
resilience
Mood
reflective
hopeful
philosophical
Type
quote
aphor
reflection
When to use this quote
- personal relationships
- conflict resolution
- leadership
- self‑development
- mental health
Key Concepts
philosophy
psychology
ethics
Questions to Reflect On
- Can you truly love an enemy without resentment?
- What habits help you release grudges?
A Different Perspective
Such forgiveness may be unrealistic for those deeply wounded or traumatized.