Gentleness

Be ruthless with ideas and gentle with people. (Robert Sirico, founder of Acton Institute)

Sirico’s counsel is really needed today. Conflicting ideas ought to be studied, proclaimed, and debated with energy and confidence. But when that zealous ardor turns to angry name-calling and accusations, all possibility of mutual understanding and gain is lost. Ideas are important, of course, but sharing them in a civil manner is critical to mutual understanding.

But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. (James 3:17)