Pity and forbearance, and long-sufferance and fair interpretation, and excusing our brother, and taking in the best sense, and passing the gentlest sentence, are as certainly our duty, and owing to every person that does offend and can repent, as calling to account can be owing to the law, and are first to be paid; and he that does not so is an unjust person.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Emphasizing that forgiveness and gentle judgment are duties owed to others as much as accountability is.
- In plain terms
- Forgiveness is just as important as holding someone accountable.
- What can you take from it?
- Prioritize empathy and forgiveness.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How do we balance justice and mercy?
- Is forgiveness a duty?
Another view
Accountability is sometimes necessary for justice.
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