No one likes having offended another person; hence everyone feels so much better if the other person doesn't show he's been offended. Nobody likes being confronted by a wounded spaniel. Remember that. It is much easier patiently -- and tolerantly -- to avoid the person you have injured than to approach him as a friend. You need courage for that.

Summary

This quote emphasizes the discomfort people feel when they realize they have offended someone. It suggests that individuals prefer it when the offended person does not display their hurt feelings, as it eases the guilt and unease of the offender. Furthermore, it highlights the notion that it is far simpler to avoid someone you have hurt than to face them as a friend and apologize. To do the latter, it suggests, requires courage because it entails acknowledging one's mistakes and taking responsibility for them.

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