I have found that in the West, the search for grace often takes the form of a search for ideals. "Who is ideal? Who is the best? How can I make myself like that person?" When the state of grace is understood as embodying an ideal, it can easily be turned into something distant and inaccessible.

In a world that has become individualized, fragmented and competitive, grace has become more of a challenge. . . .

The idea, "Every man for himself." has a cost attached to it. No one can afford so high a price.

I think there is a selfishness that is nurtured by the economic system of the West. In Western society there are so many opportunities for individuals to make big gains at the expense of the rest of the community.

Sobonfu E. Some, Falling Out of Grace