Focolare Movement

I could not betray my conscience

Sep 16, 2009

Easy money or honesty? A young Venezuelan dentist facing a choice

After I graduated in dentistry I wanted to start work straight away. I love my job and I see it as an opportunity to build a better society. I soon got offered a job, but I realised that it involved a compromise that went against the ethics of my profession. The salary was really attractive, and I needed the money, but I was even more certain that I could not go against my conscience. I decided to turn down the offer. At the same time, I was invited to start an educational project, and to work as a teacher in a children’s nursery. My decision caused some consternation. My family and friends thought I was wasting time and energy, and could not understand why I had turned down such a good professional opportunity in order to be a “nappy (diaper) changer”. But I was happy, because it gave me a real opportunity for building fraternity. In fact, the experience was beautiful. There were a few of us, and we were trying to set up a project that seemed like a seed of something great, answering the needs of the district that we trying to serve. To my surprise I was then offered a job as a dentist. The experience of the nursery had given me a new vision of things, and my job was no longer simply a way of fulfilling my personal ambitions, it now became an opportunity to “give” and to love. There were plenty of occasions when the fundamental choices of my life were put to the test. For example, I was offered the chance to earn more money, using some unethical methods. In the world I live in, where the needs are great and there is a lot of corruption, those things even appear “normal”. But once again it was clear to me that I ought not to give in to such a proposal. On another occasion, a poor man came to the surgery that none of my colleagues wanted to treat. I knew that Jesus was in that person, and I could not treat him in a lesser way than I would treat Jesus himself. A short time ago an amazing possibility emerged of setting up a dental clinic with a person who shares the same ideals as me. We could set up our own business, and give everyone a good and proper service, while adhering to the Economy of Communion project! I saw this as the “hundredfold” for having looked for the kingdom of God! I am happy with this new project, where I can give of myself completely in the building of a new society. (E. Venezuela)

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to Newsletter

Thought of the day

Related post

Living the Gospel: with treasure in our hearts

Living the Gospel: with treasure in our hearts

In our daily lives, unexpected situations sometimes arise that alter our plans. We can let ourselves be overwhelmed by them and end up feeling bitter about what we have experienced. If, on the other hand, we keep in mind the “treasure”, which is love for our neighbour, we will find a way to deal with those situations and the sweet taste of peace will remain in our hearts.

A Network of Families: Dialogue Creates Community

A Network of Families: Dialogue Creates Community

An experience of dialogue and hospitality that has turned into a network of support and friendship for the common good. This is what Andreja from Slovenia, a member of the Focolare Movement tells us. She and her husband are part of the New Families’ Movement. In the video, the voices of those involved in this experience.

Gaza and Middle East emergency

Gaza and Middle East emergency

The Emergency Coordination of the Focolare Movement has launched an appeal for the Gaza and Middle East, to help people in those countries suffering from conflict.