Death and dying Quote by P. N. Elrod
““Do you really think anyone needs some kind of notarized statement saying 'Dear Saint Peter, here's another stiff, pass him through the gates, signed, Father McGonnigill.'...'PS: He once had a hot dog on a Friday, but don't hold that against him.' ””
About This Quote
The speaker mocks bureaucratic or ritualistic gatekeeping, suggesting that trivial personal details are absurdly used to judge moral worth.
In simple terms: Ridiculous criteria for judgment.
Critique of arbitrary moral gatekeeping.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- job applications requiring irrelevant info
- online reputation scores
- religious confessionals
Key Concepts
Practical Applications
- focus on substantive character, not trivialities
- question the relevance of gatekeeping criteria
Questions to Reflect On
- Why do we accept arbitrary standards for moral assessment?
- What would change if we judged solely on actions?
Some formalities serve practical purposes, like ensuring safety or consistency.