I am surprised at the suddenness as well as the greatness of this revolution... It is the will of Heaven that the two countries should be sundered forever. It may be the will of Heaven that America shall suffer calamities still more wasting, and distresses yet more dreadful. If this is to be the case it will have this good effect at least. It will inspire us with many virtues which we have not, and correct many errors, follies, and vices which threaten to disturb, dishonor, and destroy us. The furnace of affliction produces refinement in states as well as individuals. And the new Governments we are assuming in every part will require a purification from our vices, and an augmentation of our virtues, or they will be no blessings. The people will have unbounded power, and the people are extremely addicted to corruption and venality, as well as the great. But I must submit all my hopes and fears to an overruling Providence, in which, unfashionable as the faith may be, I firmly believe.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- He sees revolution as a divine test that will both cause suffering and forge virtue, requiring purification of vices.
- In plain terms
- Revolution brings pain but also the chance to improve virtue.
- What can you take from it?
- Use crises to cleanse flaws and build character.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Can suffering always produce virtue?
- What safeguards prevent decline?
Another view
Not all crises lead to moral improvement.
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