The question of evil

The question is as old as the ages, and has been asked in every language and in every religion. If God is loving and kind, then why do we have suffering in this world?

Many have tried to answer this question. Theologians will speak about free will and original sin. Others will blame the power of evil and darkness. And some maintain it is all an illusion. But when you are the one struggling, these answers do not speak to the heart and soul.

Elizabeth Kubler Ross is quoted as saying The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.

To explain pain away or make it good is to cheapen human suffering. To acknowledge it, to struggle and rise from the depths, that takes a strong and resolute soul. We have seen individuals who have endured much, even to the depths of despair, but have come out radiant and enlightened. They are powerful souls because they have faced suffering and overcome it. Their experience has taught them the power of compassion and encouragement.

Beautiful people do not just happen.  

They have let pain become vehicles of transformation.

Beautiful people do not just happen.

I need to remember this.