Reasons

When I was growing up, I would always hear people giving reasons for why bad things happen to good people:

"That person died because God wanted to put him out of his suffering."

"That person died because God had a special plan for her."

"That person is disabled to help others appreciate not being disabled."

"I went through some hard financial times so I could learn to appreciate what I have."

"That person is terminally ill because God wanted to teach us to appreciate the time that we have on earth."

I have heard all of these phrases in some form or another over the years, and many other similar ones. I don't want to say I don't believe in God (although I don't accept his existence as readily as most people do). All I am saying is that people have no way of knowing these statements are true. They say things like this to make themselves feel better when they are going through hard times.

I have no problem with people thinking of reasons for their suffering, but I would also like them to realize that it is possible that there is no reason for their suffering. Most times, people don't want to admit that because it makes them feel worse. I understand that, believe me. But it seems crazy to me to believe anything you come up with as a hard and true fact. Some people are even willing to die for these ideas, even though they have nothing to show their truth.

I don't want to debate the whole "faith" issue because people get way too heated about it. I just want people to open their eyes to other possibilities. Is it possible you are wrong whether you think you are are not? Yes! But most people will never admit that, especially if they are very religious.

I know I am writing a loosing argument, so I will just say this - Think of reasons to ease your suffering if it makes you feel better, but leave a little room in your mind for other alternatives.