“There must be a reason why some people can afford to live well. They must have worked for it. I only feel angry when I see waste. When I see people throwing away things that we could use.”
- August 26, 1910 – September 5, 1997
- Albanian
- Catholic nun and saint
- Founded the Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta, India, and won the Nobel Peace Prize for her work in supporting the poor, sick, and orphans
Quote
“There must be a reason why some people can afford to live well. They must have worked for it. I only feel angry when I see waste. When I see people throwing away things that we could use.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mother Teresa reflects on the contrast between those who have worked hard to earn what they have and those who waste resources that others could benefit from. She acknowledges that those who live comfortably likely earned their living through effort, but she expresses frustration when she witnesses waste—especially when so many others are in need. Her anger isn’t directed at the wealthy, but rather at the disregard for resources that could be used to help others. This speaks to her deep sense of compassion and responsibility toward the poor and the marginalized, as she believed that even the smallest resources could make a significant difference in the lives of those who have less.
Mother Teresa was known for her resourcefulness and respect for every kind of resource, often utilizing what others discarded to benefit the poorest and most vulnerable. She understood that waste is not only about food or material goods—it’s also about human potential. When resources are discarded without thought, it reflects a lack of consideration for those who could use them. Her message challenges us to value what we have and to share generously, ensuring that nothing is wasted when there are others in need.
In today’s world, this quote encourages us to be mindful of how we use our resources. In a society where consumption often leads to waste, we are reminded to be intentional about the things we use, to reuse and repurpose as much as possible, and to consider how we can share what we have with those who need it. For example, donating clothing, food, or household items instead of throwing them away can help reduce waste while providing essential resources for people in need. By becoming more mindful of our consumption and waste, we can make a significant impact in our communities and ensure that nothing is wasted, especially when it can be put to good use.
