"It is easy to be nice, even to an enemy - from lack of character"
- Dag Hammarskjold
About this Quote
This quote by Dag Hammarskjold talks to the concept that it is easy to be good to someone, even an opponent, when one lacks character. This implies that it is not a sign of strength or courage to be kind to somebody who has wronged you, but rather an indication of weak point. It suggests that it takes a strong character to be able to stand up to an opponent and not succumb to their needs. It also indicates that it is harder to be kind to somebody who has actually wronged you, as it requires a good deal of self-control and inner strength. This quote talks to the concept that it is not always simple to do the ideal thing, and that it takes a strong character to be able to stand up for what is right, even when it is difficult.