Are people fundamentally ungrateful?

Introduction to the Devout Life
Part 1, Chapters 9-24

Group Reflection
Matthew, Anthony, Sinhyang, Suwan

The tone adopted by St Francis seems very frank. He appears intent on humbling the reader, "breaking him/her down" before they are built up again. He systematically carries out this objective through a structured, linear progression of chapters (which often can be read in pairs) and through his simple, inductive method (using the sen/known to illustrate the unseen/unknown).

Based on these chapters, it can be argued that St Francis sees humans as fundamentally ungrateful people, which is limiting both their own potential and straining their relationship with God. And it is because of their preoccupation with themselves (and not God) that St. Francis uses common language and analogies to connect to the reader, as he is coming down to their level to help them turn away from their selfishness and ungratefulness. In so doing, St. Francis demonstrates his optimism that humanity, despite its obvious faults, can be saved.

Matthew