I'm writing about suffering in values book right now. i reject any belief in the redemptive power of suffering. suffering leaves us bitter and twisted and cynical. i know that my christian brothers believe that suffering brings atonement. but i reject that utterly. if we really believed that suffering was good for us, then we would inflict in on our children to help them grow. but we do the opposite. Ennoblement of character comes through triumph over suffering, rather than its endurance.
To say that suffering leaves us bitter and twisted is simplistic. Suffering definitely can (and often does) leave one bitter and twisted but suffering by definition does not do this. How we deal with suffering determines how it leaves us. There are some who end up worse for the suffering they endure and there are some that end up better - who grow and learn through what they are enduring.
To say that Christians believe that suffering brings atonement is also simplistic. Suffering by definition does not bring atonement. However, it is possible to atone for ones failings through suffering the consequences of them and growing through them. Inflicting needless suffering upon yourself will bring you nothing but needless suffering.
What is the definition of not inflicting suffering on your children? For sure we don't set out to needlessly harm them or cause them pain. But we do force them to abide by the rules of the family, to respect their elders, to do their homework and piano practice. Otherwise they suffer the consequences - be it time out, being smacked, losing privileges. Could this be defined as suffering for our children? You'd have to ask them! :-) Through this they learn respect, self-discipline and learn to grow to be members of our society
Finally in my opinion I think ennoblement of character comes not only through triumph over suffering but also enduring it with dignity. This is how you are truly redeemed through suffering.
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