… the true function of a lawyer was to unite parties driven asunder.
This quote suggests that the primary role of a lawyer should be to reconcile disagreements and conflicts, rather than perpetuating them or exploiting them for personal gain. It emphasizes the importance of unity, understanding, and compromise in resolving disputes. The lawyer’s job is not just about winning cases but also about finding common ground between conflicting parties and working towards peaceful resolutions.
This idea stands in stark contrast to the common perception of lawyers as combative individuals who thrive on adversarial encounters. It implies that lawyers should act more like mediators or peacemakers, seeking harmony over victory.
In today’s world, this perspective can be applied in various areas such as politics, business negotiations and even personal relationships where there are disagreements or conflicts. For instance, politicians could strive to understand opposing viewpoints and find middle ground instead of adhering strictly to party lines. Business negotiators can aim for win-win solutions rather than zero-sum outcomes.
In terms of personal development, Gandhi’s view encourages us to seek understanding and reconciliation when dealing with conflict in our lives. Instead of trying to “win” an argument at all costs or holding onto resentment when we feel wronged by others, we can strive for open communication and mutual respect. By doing so, not only do we resolve conflicts more effectively but also build stronger relationships based on trust and respect.
Moreover, Gandhi’s perspective calls us towards empathy – putting ourselves into other people’s shoes before making judgments or decisions which impact them directly – a trait which is increasingly important in today’s polarized society where division often seems more prevalent than unity.
