Divine Definitions: (1) Heeding the need of others delicately and with sensitivity; (2) Possessing a good heart; softhearted; (3) Able to handle any situation smoothly and with touching tenderness; (4) Self-composed; serene; (5) Noble; Lordly
Quote: The sound of ‘gentle stillness’ after all the thunder and wind have passed will [be] the ultimate Word from God. — Philip James Elliot (1927–1956) American Christian missionary
Comment: We see, seemingly, dissimilar qualities come together in the same human being; such as strong and gentle, all of the time. If opposites can be so agreeably combined in humans, then all the more probable in The One who is the originator of all that is good.
GENTLENESS
Human Definitions: (1) refined or polite; noble; (2) heeding the need of others with delicacy and sensitivity; generous; kind; (3) able to handle a situation smoothly; self-composed, serene; patient; (4) mild; moderate;
Synonyms: meek, pacific, peaceful, placid, quiet, softhearted, tender
Balancing Qualities: Determined, Strong
Maxim: Gently in manner, strongly in deed.
Quote: The finest workers in stone are not copper or steel tools, but the gentle touches of air and water working at their leisure with a liberal allowance of time. — Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862) American naturalist
Comment: We associate gentleness with the sense of touch; but even though we cannot physically touch most people, we can touch their hearts with the kindness of a smile, touch their minds with an encouraging word, or touch their funny bones with a sense of humor.
Symbol: the unicorn {Gentleness and Longevity} (Chinese)