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The Thomistic Institute

Why Does God Allow Us to Suffer? | Sr. Jane Dominic Laurel, O.P.

Oct 23, 2024
In this enlightening discussion, Sr. Jane Dominic Laurel, a Dominican Sister and theology professor, delves into the complexities of suffering and its role in the human experience. She reflects on how the pursuit of transient joys often leads to emptiness, while embracing suffering can foster authenticity and deeper connections. Through personal stories, she illustrates how faith can transform the challenges of parenting and health crises into profound spiritual growth, encouraging listeners to see suffering as an invitation to encounter God.
01:21:22

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Quick takeaways

  • Pursuing traditional sources of happiness often leads to disappointment, emphasizing the need for deeper, more meaningful connections instead.
  • Embracing suffering can cultivate virtues like patience and self-sacrifice, ultimately leading to spiritual growth and understanding of love.

Deep dives

The Search for Everlasting Happiness

Human beings often pursue happiness through various avenues, such as money, power, beauty, pleasure, fame, and relationships. However, these pursuits frequently lead to disappointment and a hollow sense of fulfillment. The podcast discusses notable examples, including a billionaire who, despite his wealth, longs for genuine connection and love. The conclusion is that these traditional sources of happiness fail to provide lasting joy, as they can become burdens or lead to disillusionment.

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