"وقتی که شروع به دیدن این می‌کنی که دشمن تو در حال رنج کشیدن است، آن شروع بصیرت است."

Understanding this quote is pretty straightforward but profoundly meaningful. It suggests that true insight comes when we recognize that those we consider our enemies are also suffering. This isn't just about feeling sympathy; it’s about realizing that our so-called enemies are, in fact, human beings with their own struggles and pain. When we see their suffering, we see their humanity, and that changes everything.

Historically, this idea rings true in many conflicts and situations. Think about the aftermath of wars. Often, soldiers who fought against each other later find common ground in their shared experiences of trauma and loss. It’s not uncommon to hear stories of veterans from opposing sides meeting years later and discovering that they have more in common than they ever thought during the conflict. This mutual understanding can be the beginning of reconciliation and peace.

Now, let’s bring this idea to life with a real-world example. Imagine a high school where two groups of students can’t stand each other. They’ve been rivals for years, each group thinking the worst of the other. One day, a member of one group, let’s call him Jake, finds out that a member of the other group, Sarah, is going through a tough time — she’s dealing with a family crisis. Jake sees Sarah crying in the hallway and, for the first time, he sees her not as an enemy but as a person who is hurting. Moved by her pain, he decides to reach out and offer some words of comfort. This simple act changes both of their perspectives. They start to see each other not as enemies but as people with their own struggles. This is the beginning of the end of their rivalry.

So, how do you apply this wisdom in your own life? Start by looking at those you have conflicts with — really look at them. Ask yourself what they might be going through. What’s causing them pain or stress? This isn’t about excusing bad behavior; it’s about understanding its roots. When you see someone’s suffering, it’s harder to hold onto anger or hatred. This perspective can transform relationships, whether it's with a colleague, a family member, or even someone on the other side of a political debate.

Here’s a relatable story. Imagine you’re at work, and there’s that one coworker who always seems to be against you. They criticize your ideas, complain about your work, and generally make your professional life harder. It’s tempting to just write them off as a jerk. But then, one day, you overhear them on the phone, talking about how their parent is sick and they’re struggling to balance caregiving with their job. Suddenly, you see them in a new light. Their frustration and irritability make more sense. They’re not just being difficult; they’re under immense stress. With this new insight, you might approach your interactions differently — with more patience, maybe even offering some help.

In essence, seeing the suffering of our enemies doesn’t mean we accept their negative actions; it means we understand the human pain behind those actions. This understanding can be a powerful step toward empathy, resolution, and maybe even friendship. So next time you’re faced with someone you’d rather avoid, take a moment to consider their struggles. You might just find that this insight softens your heart and opens a door to a better relationship.