(Second) quote from Letter 9.86 to Clementina, patrician. December 598-January 599
But I ought not to keep quiet over one matter brought to my attention, in case the love between us might be less, if what needs to be said for correction is passed over in silence. For indeed, it has been reported to me that if ever someone offends you, you hang on to the pain without forgiving him.
Because the more I love you, the more I am distressed, I ask that if this is true, your should banish this vice from yourself, and should not allow the seed of an evil crop to grow, following the crop of good proceed. Remember the words of the Lord's Prayer and do not let a fault have more influence on you then a pardon. Let the goodness of your Glory overcome your faults, and put you on trial more profitably by pardoning, as persistent bitterness can make you impious.
But I ought not to keep quiet over one matter brought to my attention, in case the love between us might be less, if what needs to be said for correction is passed over in silence. For indeed, it has been reported to me that if ever someone offends you, you hang on to the pain without forgiving him.
Because the more I love you, the more I am distressed, I ask that if this is true, your should banish this vice from yourself, and should not allow the seed of an evil crop to grow, following the crop of good proceed. Remember the words of the Lord's Prayer and do not let a fault have more influence on you then a pardon. Let the goodness of your Glory overcome your faults, and put you on trial more profitably by pardoning, as persistent bitterness can make you impious.
Cited from: The Letters of Gregory the Great, trans. John R.C. Martyn (Toronto: PIMS, 2004), II, 595
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