Ah, so many to choose from! And more than one on my list. The writer known as Mark Twain had a power for summation of truths seldom matched, and even more seldom executed with such a deft satirical hand or a keen wit. But, the quotation I chose first and foremost to present on my list is not one of wry humor, or cutting wit, but one of gentle and poignant beauty.
"Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it."
Mark Twain
A beautiful sentiment.
But also a powerful one.
I feel it addresses certain inevitabilities and inequities inherent in the very act of forgiveness...
Forgiveness as an act without sufficient compensation. Forgiveness without actual restitution. Forgiveness despite irreperable harm, despite a needless destruction. Forgiveness as an act of kindness even when no kindness is deserved...
For the violet, it sheds its fragrance not Because of the action, but in spite of it. Even as it may be the final act it can take.
It neither can nor does struggle for vengeance or retaliation against the harm, but accepts it and gives only kindness in return.
In this way, forgiveness - true forgiveness - should not be given conditionally, or only after restitution, or only upon proper revenge. Forgiveness is, in its way, the Acceptance of the harm as it is given. It is a kindness given freely in return.
In a time where so many people live their lives on attack or counter attack, seeking to balance some unseen score in their heads, thinking that only this Equity or great Balancing of Score can bring peace, I find it powerful to remember the violet; and the heel.
And to shed my fragrance all the same.
