Able Quote by Judith Viorst
“Control cannot be called conscience until we are able to take it inside us and make it our own, until--in spite of the fact that the wrongs we have done or imagined will never be punished or known--we nonetheless feel that the clutch in the stomach, that chill upon the soul, that self-inflicted misery called guilt.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: The Nature of Guilt, Judith Viorst, 1990
Guilt arises when we internalize moral standards and feel personal responsibility, even without external punishment.
In simple terms: Feeling guilty is an inner moral alarm.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and own your feelings of guilt.
Themes
morality
self-awareness
psychology
Mood
reflective
somber
Type
philosophical
psychological
When to use this quote
- personal reflection
- therapy
- ethical decision making
Key Concepts
conscience
internal conflict
emotional intelligence
Questions to Reflect On
- How does internal guilt differ from external punishment?
- Can guilt motivate positive change?
A Different Perspective
Guilt can be paralyzing if not processed.
