I came across a quote recently from Kurt Vonnegut that made me stop and think.
It pointed out that many people can quote or recognise the Ten Commandments, and we even see them displayed in public places…
…but the Beatitudes — those simple lines about being merciful, humble, and making peace — rarely get the same attention.
And it got me wondering…
Why is that?
Maybe it’s because rules are easier.
“Don’t do this, don’t do that” is clear. It’s visible. You can measure it.
But “be merciful” or “be pure in heart”… that’s different. That’s internal. That’s harder to prove — and probably harder to live.
Living here in Tenerife, a lot of us say we want a peaceful, simpler life.
But are we actually peacemakers?
It’s easy not to steal.
It’s harder not to judge.
It’s easy to follow rules.
It’s harder to change your character.
So I’d love to hear your thoughts on this.
Do you think the Beatitudes are overlooked?
Or do you think they’re just harder to live by?
📩 Send me your thoughts — I will read them out on the next Balcony Banter.