Line by Line - Verse 79, Lines 1-2

When a reconciliation is effected (between two parties) after a great animosity, there is sure to be a grudge remaining (in the mind of the one who was wrong). And how can this be beneficial (to the other)?
~ James Legge translation, from The Sacred Books of the East, 1891 ~

After a bitter quarrel, some resentment must remain.
What can one do about it?
~ Gia-fu Feng and Jane English translation, published by Vintage Books, 1989 ~

After settling a great dispute
There must be remaining resentments
How can this be considered good?
~ Derek Lin translation, from Tao Te Ching: Annotated & Explained, published by SkyLight Paths, 2006 ~

Sometimes, when an argument is settled,
feelings of resentment still remain on either side.
What's the point of carrying a grudge?
~ Ron Hogan rendition, from Beatrice.com, 2004 ~

I think it's safe to say that it is human nature to argue. We each view life through subjective lenses and these subjective impressions don't tend to match up very well. Since each one of us thinks that our subjective viewpoint most closely matches with so-called objective reality, when others disagree (because they think their subjective viewpoint is far more on target), an argument can ensue.

What makes it all the worse is that SOME people -- like yours truly -- can't simply argue, they must win the argument!

Is it any wonder that all sides in these sorts of arguments go away with negative feelings?

To view the Index page for this series to see what you may have missed or would like to read again, go here.