This quote emphasizes the importance of resilience in unity. It suggests that true unity is not merely about coming together, but about staying together even under extreme pressure or adversity. Just like a chain, a unified group is only as strong as its weakest link. If it breaks under strain, then its unity was not real or profound.
The ‘severest strain’ can refer to any kind of challenge or difficulty – conflicts within the group, external threats, changes in circumstances etc. The ability to remain united despite these strains shows the depth and strength of the unity among individuals.
This concept has broad applications across various aspects of today’s world including politics, social issues and personal development. In politics for example, countries face numerous challenges such as economic crises or natural disasters that test their national unity.
In terms of social issues like racial inequality or gender discrimination, this quote underscores the need for collective action and solidarity that withstands opposition and setbacks to achieve social justice.
In personal development too this idea is crucial. Individuals often encounter obstacles on their path to growth – failures, criticism etc., but persisting through these hardships with self-belief demonstrates true inner unity (or integrity).
Moreover in relationships whether familial or romantic ones; disagreements and misunderstandings are inevitable but if they break apart easily then their bond was not strong enough.
Thus Gandhi’s words remind us that real unity demands endurance; it should be able to survive trials without falling apart – it’s easy to stay united when times are good but true test comes during adversities.