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One of the effects of original sin is an instinctive…

“One of the effects of original sin is an instinctive prejudice in favour of our own selfish desires. We see things as they are not, because we see them centered on ourselves. Fear, anxiety, greed, ambition and our hopeless need for pleasure all distort the image of reality that is reflected in our…” quote by Thomas Merton
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““One of the effects of original sin is an instinctive prejudice in favour of our own selfish desires. We see things as they are not, because we see them centered on ourselves. Fear, anxiety, greed, ambition and our hopeless need for pleasure all distort the image of reality that is reflected in our minds. Grace does not completely correct this distortion all at once: but it gives us a means of recognizing and allowing for it. And it tells us what we must do to correct it. Sincerity must be bought at a price: the humility to recognize our innumerable errors, and fidelity in tirelessly setting them right.””

Thomas Merton

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Human self‑centeredness clouds reality; grace offers humility and effort to correct distortions.

In simple terms: Selfish bias distorts truth; grace helps us see clearly.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate humility and persistent correction.

Themes

humility self‑awareness spiritual growth ethics

Mood

introspective hopeful

Type

philosophical spiritual

When to use this quote

  • personal reflection
  • spiritual counseling
  • ethical decision‑making

Key Concepts

original sin bias grace redemption

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you recognize your own selfish distortions?
  • What practices foster humility?
A Different Perspective

Grace alone cannot instantly fix bias; it requires ongoing effort.

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