Forbearance is one of the most important qualities that you should posses, and it is absolutely essential on the spiritual path. It is by putting yourself under test in difficult circumstances that you can cultivate this quality of forbearance... There is nothing extraordinary about returning good for good, but doing good in return for bad, that is something great, and the practice of such a virtue requires a great deal of skill. However much other people may criticise you, however much they may comment and condemn, you should never lose your forbearance. When others admonish you, what can you possibly lose thereby? You should remain unperturbed and continue to enjoy inner peace. If by chance you should lose your patience and forbearance, then you lose everything. So, you have to learn how to use forbearance and practise it properly, whatever the circumstances.

- Divine Discourse on Bhagavad Gita, 1984.