“But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also” (Matthew 5:39).
To be struck in such a demeaning way seemingly presents only two options—either lash out or lay down. Jesus, however, offers a more creative response. To turn the other cheek is to look the perpetrator in the eye and, thus, restore human dignity. It’s the difference between being a passive victim and a proactive victor.