Free love Quote by Richard Lischer
““I listened impatiently to the wisdom of the O'Neills for about twenty minutes until I could take no more (by this time Steve and Susan had me thumbing through the paperback). I slid the book across the desk at them and said, 'This is so much shit.' That was a mistake because the word 'shit' on the lips of a pastor deeply offended their moral sensibilities. Such was the state of things among us. They took grave exception to the word SHIT, while I was expected to remain noddingly neutral toward their adultery. WELL, SHIT, I thought. Without apologizing, I tried to convince them I was merely 'upset' by the prospects of their separation. Gradually, I achieved the clinical tone that they so admired in the O'Neills and evidently expected in their country parson.””
About This Quote
The narrator's blunt honesty clashes with the pastor's moral expectations, revealing tension between personal expression and communal sensitivity.
In simple terms: Harsh truth can offend religious sensibilities.
Key Takeaway
Balance honesty with respect for others' values.
Themes
communication
honesty
religion
social norms
conflict
Mood
reflective
cautious
Type
advice
observation
When to use this quote
- pastoral counseling
- family discussions
- public speaking
Key Concepts
ethics
interpersonal dynamics
cultural sensitivity
Questions to Reflect On
- When is honesty more important than politeness?
- How can you convey truth without causing offense?
A Different Perspective
Directness may damage relationships if not tempered.
![“[We] eventually joked about the pedestal he put me on during our first years together, and I know my falling off it drew us closer. Pedestals separate. They create imbalances. ... But the pedestal Scott has placed me on feels so good under my feet. I like the smooth, study foundation of it, the…” quote by Molly Roden Winter](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/4d0/molly-roden-winter-264140_open-marriage_we-eventually-joked-about-the-pedestal-h_1539172.jpg)
