TED Talks Daily "Everything happens for a reason" -- and other lies I've loved | Kate Bowler
Jun 4, 2019
Kate Bowler, a divinity professor, shares her transformative journey after being diagnosed with stage IV cancer at 35. She challenges the comforting notion that 'everything happens for a reason,' discussing the unpredictability of life and the painful lessons it teaches. Bowler reflects on her past beliefs about prosperity and the pressure to see hardships as blessings. Through humor and vulnerability, she emphasizes the importance of love and connection during crises, revealing the beauty that can emerge even in darkness.
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Unexpected Diagnosis
- Kate Bowler, a divinity professor, was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer at 35.
- This happened shortly after achieving her dream life with a family and career.
Initial Reactions
- After receiving her diagnosis, Bowler's first thoughts were of her son and husband.
- Ironically, she had recently published a book titled "Blessed," exploring the idea of good fortune.
Prosperity Gospel and American Dream
- Bowler's research focused on the prosperity gospel, a belief that faith leads to material blessings.
- She observed how this theology reflects the American Dream, where success is seen as a reward for virtue.
