As a journalist, I have seen things that have scarred me…
““As a journalist, I have seen things that have scarred me. I have interacted with people who have haunted me. I have heard things that have pained me. As a result, I have long struggled with the notion of faith. I have said more times than I can count, "If there is a God, how can he allow this to happen? How can he let so many people suffer?" Several years ago, I married a man of strong faith. One day he sent an email to me that said this: "On a street corner I saw a cold, shivering girl in a thin dress, with no hope of a decent meal. I got angry and said to God, 'Why did you permit this? Why don't you do something about it?' God replied, 'I certainly did something about it. I made you." Whenever I start to blame God for what I encounter in the world, I stop and remind myself that maybe it is I who should be doing more. We get so hung up on the notion of success that we can easily forget about being of service to others. I have actually found that giving of oneself is far more fulfilling than gifting oneself.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The speaker shares personal suffering and doubts about faith, then recounts a story where God’s response redirects responsibility back to the individual, emphasizing service over blame.
In simple terms: Personal hardship leads to questioning faith; a story shows responsibility lies with us, not divine.
Key Takeaway
Focus on helping others rather than blaming higher powers.
Themes
faith
suffering
responsibility
service
Mood
reflective
inspirational
Type
spiritual
motivational
When to use this quote
- journalism
- personal crisis
- spiritual reflection
Key Concepts
theodicy
personal growth
altruism
Questions to Reflect On
- What actions can you take to alleviate suffering?
- How do you balance faith with personal responsibility?
A Different Perspective
The anecdote may oversimplify complex theological issues.