You probably have got to that crossroad where you either have to be lenient or otherwise. You then have to conclude whether leniency on your part would be perceived as gentleness or weakness.No one wants to appear weak. This is the reason behind many seemingly callous acts we know of. Now the question is;
SHOULD LENIENCY BE PERCEIVED AS GENTLENESS OR WEAKNESS? OR BOTH? AND IF BOTH, HOW DO WE KNOW WHICH FITS PARTICULAR SITUATIONS?
Alright!
Being lenient, in this context, is being tolerant or indulgent. Now, let's proceed. Leniency, like everything in life, is contextual. That is, the setting, the condition and the environment of the act must be put into consideration.
In simpler words,
LENIENCY, ON ITS OWN, IS NEITHER GOOD NOR BAD.
What determines if it is, is whatever surrounds it.
For example, my friend said something hurtful, and I was naturally hurt. But then I decided, hey, it's no big deal, and then moved on. In that case, it is for the best. That is good. That is gentlemanly.
Now, let's say my friend went further, committed an offense that, if not attended to, would aggravate the situation. Let's say, letting him get away with it would encourage others to do worse things. Not all, let's say there are laid down punishment for such a thing my friend did. And, I was in charge.
The right thing is:
Sit down, (or stand, squat, whatever floats your boat) and think about the pros and cons of being lenient on that matter. How much harm would it cause. And how much of help would it be? If the harm supersedes the help, do I need to tell you what to do?
There is something about too lenient. It is no more gentleness. It is weakness in exercising authority. However, you don't have to attack the person. That would be wrong. Attack the offense and correct the person.
Do not let levity mix gravity.
Draw the line where appropriate.
Be Gentle.
Don't be Weak.
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