Journeying with the Brothers Karamazov

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Early in the morning, when it barely felt like morning, I found myself returning to the book I left off reading the night before. With just a few pages left, I was eager to savor every word, even carrying the story into my dreams. 

After finishing The Brothers Karamazov by Dostoevsky, I felt compelled to share my thoughts. While many parts touched my heart, there's one in particular that I want to focus on here.

From Dmitri's Defense: The Legacy of Fetyukovich, Moscow's Renowned Lawyer;

"Let the son stand before his father and ask him, ‘Father, tell me, why must I love you? Father, show me that I must love you,’ and if that father is able to answer him and show him good reason, we have a real, normal, parental relation, not resting on mystical prejudice, but on a rational, responsible, and strictly humanitarian basis."   

While reading The Brothers Karamazov, one passage struck me deeply. It questions the assumption that being a father naturally creates a bond of love, especially if the father has been neglectful. It challenges the belief that children must love their parents unconditionally, suggesting that true relationships should be based on mutual respect, responsibility, and care, not just biological ties.

As someone raised in a typical Korean family where obedience to parents was a given, this was a profound revelation. I realized I had never questioned these beliefs before. The passage taught me that love and respect in any relationship should be earned, not assumed, and that it's important to evaluate relationships based on how they are nurtured, rather than blindly following tradition.

I genuinely believe that adopting this mindset and approach could liberate many of us from our prejudices and emotional biases, allowing us to critically examine and challenge old customs and traditions.

Moreover, embracing this perspective could help us build a healthier society by addressing the emotional wounds that are at the root of many issues.

I’d like to remind you that these ancient, remarkable books are timeless treasures of human wisdom and creativity. They provide profound insights into the human condition and remain relevant across generations. Their rich narratives and thought-provoking questions not only capture their historical context but also challenge and inspire contemporary readers, underscoring their enduring cultural and intellectual significance.

Thank you.

Soo Kyung Kim

The image was created by AI and designed by Soo Kyung Kim.



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