1,423. Forgiveness; Pride;
Revenge
"No vicious dispositions of the mind more obstinately resist both the counsels of philosophy and the injunctions of religion than those which are complicated with an opinion of dignity; and which we cannot dismiss without leaving in the hands of opposition some advantage iniquitously obtained, or suffering from our own prejudices some imputation of pusillanimity.
"For this reason scarcely any law of
our Redeemer is more
openly transgressed, or more industriously evaded, than that by
which he commands his followers to forgive injuries, and
prohibits, under the sanction of eternal misery, the
gratification of the desire which every man feels to return pain
upon him that inflicts it. Many who could have conquered their
anger are unable to combat pride, and pursue offences to the
extremity of vengeance, lest they should be insulted by the
triumph of an enemy."
Johnson: Rambler #185 (December 24, 1751)
Link
1,430. Forgiveness
Of him that hopes to be forgiven it is indispensably required
that he forgive. It is therefore superfluous to urge any other
motive. On this great duty eternity is suspended, and to him
that refuses to practise it the throne of mercy is inaccessible,
and the Saviour of the world has been born in vain.
Johnson: Rambler #185 (December 24, 1751)
Link
