“Anger is the enemy of non-violence and pride is a monster that swallows it up.”
Share this quote
Probable attribution
This saying is widely associated with Mahatma Gandhi, but the attribution is not supported by a reliable primary source.
Likely origin: Attributed to Gandhi in thematic compilations of his sayings (e.g. 'Glorious Thoughts of Gandhi'); no dated primary located.
About this quote
Anger and pride are the two forces that wreck any attempt to stay nonviolent: anger pushes you to strike, and pride convinces you the strike is owed. Catch either one rising and you have found the exact moment your composure is about to give.
When to use it
- A driver cut off in traffic feels the heat climb and chooses to breathe rather than lean on the horn and give chase.
- In a heated meeting, someone catches their pride demanding the last word and decides to let the point simply go.
- A parent, furious at a child's backtalk, recognizes the flash of temper and steps out of the room before reacting.