There was a disagreement between two friends. One heard of what the other had accused him. He went to him and said, “Will you be kind enough to tell me my faults that I may learn and rid myself of them?” The other said, “I will do it.” The first one then said, “Before you begin, let us kneel and pray that my eyes may be opened to see my faults. Will you lead the prayer?”

When the prayer was over, the man said, “No, what have you noticed wrong in my conduct?” The other answered, “After praying over it, it looks so little that it is not worth talking about. I realize I should not have talked about it, and have need that you pray for me and forgive me the wrong I have done you.”

The disagreement was dissolved between the two that hour.

Harsh words are often generated out of pride and selfishness. Prayer is a great antidote for both.