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Children Quote by Ronald Reagan

“Getting shot hurts. Still my fear was growing because no matter how hard I tried to breath it seemed I was getting less & less air. I focused on that tiled ceiling and prayed. But I realized I couldn't ask for Gods help while at the same time I felt hatred for the mixed up young man who had shot…” quote by Ronald Reagan
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““Getting shot hurts. Still my fear was growing because no matter how hard I tried to breath it seemed I was getting less & less air. I focused on that tiled ceiling and prayed. But I realized I couldn't ask for Gods help while at the same time I felt hatred for the mixed up young man who had shot me. Isn't that the meaning of the lost sheep? We are all Gods children & therefore equally beloved by him. I began to pray for his soul and that he would find his way back to the fold.””

Ronald Reagan

About This Quote

Source Speech: Remarks at the National Prayer Breakfast, 1985

A wounded man struggles with fear, hatred, and forgiveness, realizing that praying for an attacker reflects deeper compassion and shared humanity.

In simple terms: Pain and fear can coexist with compassion and forgiveness.

Key Takeaway

Choose compassion over hatred.

Themes

faith forgiveness conflict humanity

Mood

reflective hopeful

Type

spiritual philosophical

When to use this quote

  • combat trauma
  • personal crisis
  • interpersonal conflict
  • moral decision making

Key Concepts

spirituality empathy redemption

Questions to Reflect On

  • Can you forgive someone who hurt you deeply?
  • What does it mean to love your enemy?
A Different Perspective

Forgiveness may be difficult when personal harm is severe.

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