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ON the other hand we know (and O! would that we did not know) some of
the brethren who are so hard and obstinate, that when they know that their
own feelings are aroused against their brother, or that their brother's are
against them, in order to conceal their vexation of mind, which is caused
by indignation at the grievance of one or the other, go apart from those
whom they ought to smooth down by humbly making up to them and talking with
them; and begin to sing some verses of the Psalms. And these while they
fancy that they are softening the bitter thoughts which have arisen in
their heart, increase by their insolent conduct what they could have got
rid of at once if they had been willing to show more care and humility, for
a well-timed expression of regret would cure their own feelings and soften
their brother's heart. For by that plan they nourish and cherish the sin of
meanness or rather of pride, instead of stamping out all inducement to
quarrelling, and they forget the charge of the Lord which says: "Whosoever
is angry with his brother, is in danger of the judgment;" and: "if thou
remember that thy brother hath aught against thee, leave there thy gift
before the altar, and go thy way, first be reconciled to thy brother, and
then come and offer thy gift."
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