“Even the rich are hungry for love, for being cared for, for being wanted, for having someone to call their own.”
- 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
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Quote
“Even the rich are hungry for love, for being cared for, for being wanted, for having someone to call their own.”
Explanation
In this quote, Mother Teresa speaks to the universal nature of human needs, emphasizing that even those who seem to have everything material—such as wealth—are still vulnerable to feelings of loneliness and emotional hunger. Despite having riches, they may still crave the same love, attention, and connection that those without material wealth seek. This highlights that love and belonging are not defined by financial status but by our need for human connection and being valued for who we are, not what we have.
Mother Teresa observed the suffering of both the poor and the wealthy, understanding that the poverty of the heart—the feeling of being unwanted or uncared for—can be just as painful, if not more so, than physical deprivation. In her work, she strove to meet this emotional need, offering love and compassion to people regardless of their social standing. For her, love was a universal language that transcended all barriers, including wealth and status.
In modern society, this message serves as a reminder that material wealth cannot substitute for genuine human connection. Whether someone is wealthy or poor, everyone has a deep need for emotional support and affection. For example, a busy professional may have access to all the comforts of life but still feel disconnected and alone without meaningful relationships. This underscores the importance of showing care and love to others, as we never know where someone may be feeling empty or unloved. Small gestures like a thoughtful conversation or offering kindness can provide the emotional nourishment that everyone, regardless of their wealth, truly needs.
