Chapter 15: Power of Gentleness

"Nothing is so strong as gentleness, nothing is so gentle as real strength."_Saint Francis de Sales.

In a world that often equates strength with dominance and assertiveness, gentleness can be misunderstood as a sign of weakness. Yet, as I’ve grown and experienced more of life, I’ve come to realize that true strength often lies in the softest of touches, the kindest of words, and the most patient of actions. Gentleness is not about being timid or passive; it’s about choosing compassion over aggression, kindness over harshness, even when it’s difficult. Being gentle is not as easy as it sounds, it requires a huge amount of patience and self control.

I realised this when, my friend, who was caught up in trouble due to a false accusation remained calm and peaceful, and explained the situation to the teachers without violence or harsh words, which ended up solving the problem in a gentle way. Her strength came not from overpowering, but from managing the tension of the situation with kindness and understanding.

Gentleness, I’ve learned, requires self-control and a deep understanding of others. It’s easy to lash out in anger or frustration, but to respond with patience, especially in difficult situations, takes far more strength. Whether it’s offering a listening ear to a friend in need or holding back a sharp retort during an argument, gentleness builds bridges where harshness often burns them.

In relationships, whether with family, friends, or even strangers, gentleness fosters trust and connection. When we approach others with gentleness, we show that we value their feelings, that we are willing to be vulnerable, and that we seek harmony rather than conflict. It’s a quiet but powerful force that invites others to be their true selves, without fear of judgment.

Gentleness also extends to how we treat the world around us. It’s in the way we care for the environment, in how we show compassion to animals, and in how we handle life’s challenges with grace rather than force. Being gentle with ourselves is equally important – allowing space for self-reflection, healing, and growth, rather than harsh self-criticism.

I’ve come to appreciate gentleness as a form of resilience. In a fast-paced, often unforgiving world, choosing gentleness is a way of saying that we believe in the power of kindness and that we are strong enough to practice it, even when it’s not the easiest path. It reminds me that true strength doesn’t always roar; sometimes, it whispers with quiet, steady resolve.