“Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it”
— Mark Twain
Simplified Meaning:
When someone does something hurtful to you, like stepping on a flower, it's normal to feel upset. But if you can be like the flower and still spread kindness and forgiveness, even to the person who hurt you, then you are showing true strength. Imagine someone accidentally steps on a violet flower, crushing it. Instead of being bitter, the violet releases its sweet smell even to the person who stepped on it. This means that forgiving others, despite the pain they may have caused, brings a sense of peace and positivity. Let’s say a friend said something mean in an argument. Instead of holding a grudge, you choose to forgive them and continue being nice. This can make your friendship stronger. By letting go of anger and showing kindness, you help both yourself and the other person heal. Life is more pleasant when we let kindness lead, just like the violet spreading a pleasant fragrance instead of bitterness.
