Health
Why Bad Things Must Happen to Good People
In an orderly and just world, religion would be just a cosmic vending machine. Unpredictable suffering makes true virtue possible.
Nathaniel Givens
January 10, 2020
In an orderly and just world, religion would be just a cosmic vending machine. Unpredictable suffering makes true virtue possible.
Vivid moments of contrast can provide richness and fresh insight. That doesn’t mean they’re all meaningful or enjoyable, though.
Suffering is everywhere. And yet, by the way we sometimes talk, you’d think it’s a rarity. Or at least better to avoid in polite company.
If you think life should be easy, its hardness can feel crushing. But what if this difficulty is an essential feature, rather than a disconcerting mistake?
Underlying animosity can transform our view of otherwise vibrant goodness into something repulsive to be discarded as soon as possible.