Philosophy: Way of Nature; Way of Grace

> “The nuns taught us there are two ways through life: the way of Nature and the way of Grace. You have to choose which one you’ll follow.
Grace doesn’t try to please itself... Nature only wants to please itself... They taught us that no one who ever loves the way of grace ever comes to a bad end.
I will be true to you. Whatever comes.”
— Terrence Malick, The Tree of Life

This week’s topic explores the two dueling philosophies from The Tree of Life: Nature, driven by desire and control, and Grace, grounded in compassion and acceptance.

We’ll reflect on what these ideas mean in our own lives and how they shape the way we see others and ourselves. You don’t need to have seen the film — the focus is on the philosophy and how it connects to real-life experiences and personal growth.

Discussion points include:

What does it mean to live by “Nature” or “Grace” in modern life?

Can both coexist within us, or must one lead the other?

How do love, loss, and forgiveness influence the path we follow?

Is it possible to consciously choose grace, or does it emerge through experience?

Come ready to think, share, and explore what it means to live a life guided by grace — or by nature.