Parenting Quote by Venerable Fulton J. Sheen
““One day a woman went to the saintly Father John Vianney, the Curé of Ars, in France, and said, “My husband has not been to the sacraments or to Mass for years. He has been unfaithful, wicked, and unjust. He has just fallen from a bridge and was drowned —a double death of body and soul.” The Curé answered, “Madam, there is a short distance between the bridge and the water, and it is that distance which forbids you to judge.””
About This Quote
Source Sermon: Homily on Marriage and Forgiveness, Father John Vianney, 19th century France
Judgment is limited by proximity; true compassion requires understanding the whole context before condemning others.
In simple terms: Don’t judge without seeing the whole picture.
Key Takeaway
Seek empathy before criticism.
Themes
compassion
judgment
empathy
Mood
reflective
serene
Type
spiritual
ethical
When to use this quote
- marriage counseling
- conflict resolution
- personal grief
- spiritual guidance
Key Concepts
ethical discernment
moral responsibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How might you balance empathy with the need for honesty?
- When is it appropriate to judge?
A Different Perspective
Judgment can be necessary for accountability; this view may downplay the need for truth.
