REJECTING REVENGE
“In taking revenge, a man is but even with his enemy; but in passing it over, he is superior.” Francis Bacon
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slow down and REFLECT
on the MEANING and the MESSAGE of today’s quotation
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Popular culture often glorifies the path of taking revenge for being treated unfairly or for intentionally being injured or hurt. Give an example to illustrate this.
Have you ever resisted the temptation to exact revenge on someone? If so, what was the situation, and why did you resist being vengeful?
“There are many truths of which the full meaning cannot be realized until personal experience has brought it home.” (John Stuart Mill)
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INSIGHTS for SUCCESS
“Revenge is often like biting a dog because the dog bit you.” Austin O’Malley
“Before you embark on a journey of revenge, dig two graves.” Confucius
“An eye for an eye leaves everybody blind.” Martin Luther King, Jr.
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ai assistant
INTERPRETATION of TODAY’S QUOTE
Interested in seeing what artificial intelligence (ai) has to say about the meaning of today’s quotation? Compare it to your own interpretation. You may be fascinated, or even possibly humbled.
“In taking revenge, a man is but even with his enemy; but in passing it over, he is superior.” Francis Bacon
“Francis Bacon’s profound observation delves into the complexities of human nature, particularly in response to adversity. Let’s break down the meaning:
- “In taking revenge, a man is but even with his enemy”: This part suggests that seeking revenge places one on the same level as their adversary. It’s a form of retaliation that, while satisfying a primal urge, doesn’t elevate one’s character or position.
- “but in passing it over, he is superior”: Here, Bacon proposes a more noble path. By choosing to forgive or ignore a wrong, an individual demonstrates moral superiority. It’s a stance that rises above the conflict and places the person in a position of power and control.
Implications and Deeper Meaning
This quote implies that:
- Revenge is cyclical: It often leads to further animosity, perpetuating a negative cycle. 1. The Complicated Psychology of Revenge www.psychologicalscience.org
- Forgiveness is liberating: It allows one to move on from the past and focus on personal growth.
- Moral character is essential: True strength lies in one’s ability to overcome adversity with grace and dignity.
Ultimately, Bacon’s words encourage us to consider the long-term consequences of our actions and to prioritize personal growth over retribution.” (Gemini ai)
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