Question: People
sometimes hurt me and I cannot respond in the same manner because I do
not find it appropriate to retaliate or simply because the situation does
not allow me to do this. My question is whether it is considered my patience
or mere compulsion, which brings no pleasure to God for me. This I ask
because usually this happens with me that later I think that I should have
answered him in the same way.
Answer: I believe this act
of yours is a virtue in its nature. You say that you do not always hold
back merely because of the fact that you fear severe reaction from the
other side rather you consider that it is not appropriate to retaliate
in the given situation. This I deem a great virtue. You could have shown
undesirable reaction, which you abandon for a better option and also you
could have taken steps to teach that person a lesson later when you get
opportunity. Merely thinking that you should have paid in the same coin
is not a sin. I think you should reason your afterthought out of your mind
and nourish your behavior of being patient on the spot. Try to add the
intention of acquiring pleasure of God from this pious deed. Rest assured
that you are doing a good deed that is sure to bring you closer to your
Lord.
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