Saint Teresa of Avila: 'Be gentle to all and stern with yourself.'

Be gentle to all and stern with yourself.

'Be gentle to all and stern with yourself' - a profound and timeless quote from Saint Teresa of Avila. At its core, this quote emphasizes the importance of compassion, empathy, and kindness towards others while simultaneously advocating for self-discipline and critical self-reflection. The straightforward interpretation of this quote encourages individuals to treat others with kindness and understanding, showing empathy and respect in every interaction. However, delving deeper into this thought-provoking statement, we can unearth a philosophical concept that sheds new light on the balance between being gentle with others and being stern with oneself.The unexpected philosophical concept that resonates with this quote is that of the 'Social Contract' theory. Proposed by Enlightenment thinkers such as Thomas Hobbes, John Locke, and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, the Social Contract theory seeks to explore the relationship between individuals and society, outlining the rights and responsibilities that both parties hold. This theory provides an intriguing perspective on how our interactions with others and ourselves can be understood within a societal framework.In the context of Saint Teresa's quote, the 'be gentle to all' aspect aligns with the idea of social cooperation and the mutual benefits that arise from treating others with kindness. Just as the social contract theory suggests, individuals have a responsibility to respect and show compassion towards their fellow human beings. By being gentle, we build bridges of understanding and create an environment of trust and harmony. This act of extending kindness to all can help foster compassion and empathy within society, creating a ripple effect where others begin to reciprocate these gestures.On the other hand, the second part of the quote, 'stern with yourself,' aligns with the notion of individual accountability and self-discipline. The social contract theory highlights the importance of personal responsibility within society. It proposes that individuals have a duty to adhere to certain rules, morals, and values that serve the greater good of the community. When we apply this concept to our own lives, being stern with ourselves means holding ourselves accountable for our actions, behaviors, and decisions, even when they may be difficult or uncomfortable to confront.Being stern with ourselves involves critically examining our own flaws, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. This introspection allows us to grow and evolve as individuals. By setting high standards for ourselves and practicing self-discipline, we can strive towards personal growth and contribute positively to the greater societal framework. The act of being stern with ourselves not only benefits our own personal development but also enables us to become more effective contributors to our communities. It enables us to better fulfill our social obligations and lead by example, inspiring others to do the same.In summary, the quote by Saint Teresa of Avila, 'Be gentle to all and stern with yourself,' carries immense significance. It encapsulates the importance of showing compassion, empathy, and kindness towards others while also emphasizing the need for self-discipline and self-reflection. By understanding and embracing this balance, we can navigate the complexities of our social interactions and personal growth. Additionally, the unexpected infusion of the Social Contract theory presents an intriguing perspective on the interconnectedness of our actions within a broader societal framework. By being kind and compassionate to all, while simultaneously being stern with ourselves, we can actively contribute to building a more empathetic and virtuous society.