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Cried Quote by Nancy E. Turner

“It is an awful thing to look on such sad circumstance and not be able to shed a tear. It is not because I do not feel for these folks, but maybe I feel too much. Part of me is glad, in a low down, mean way, that it is not Albert's or Mama's graves we are digging. Glad that it is some soldiers I…” quote by Nancy E. Turner
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““It is an awful thing to look on such sad circumstance and not be able to shed a tear. It is not because I do not feel for these folks, but maybe I feel too much. Part of me is glad, in a low down, mean way, that it is not Albert's or Mama's graves we are digging. Glad that it is some soldiers I don't know and neighbors and friends but not family. Lord, I must be the cussedest woman there is to think that. Finally, I felt so guilty for thinking those things that I cried. Then I began to feel the heartaches of our friends and neighbors and I cried for them, too, as we said prayers over each and every grave.””

Nancy E. Turner

About This Quote

Source Speech: Personal testimony, unknown context, likely a memorial service

The speaker feels conflicted emotions, initially detached from strangers’ graves, then guilt leads to genuine empathy and tears for the community’s loss.

In simple terms: Mixed feelings turn into compassion after guilt.

Key Takeaway

Acknowledge guilt, allow empathy to grow.

Themes

guilt empathy grief reflection

Mood

somber reflective

Type

personal emotional

When to use this quote

  • memorial services
  • war casualties
  • community mourning
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

psychology moral conflict compassion

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why do we sometimes distance ourselves from strangers' suffering?
  • How can guilt be a catalyst for deeper empathy?
A Different Perspective

The initial detachment may stem from self‑preservation, limiting immediate compassion.

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