Why do they put the Gideon Bibles only in the bedrooms, where it's usually too late, and not in the barroom downstairs?

Why do they put the Gideon Bibles only in the bedrooms, where it's usually too late, and not in the barroom downstairs?

Christopher Morley was an American journalist, novelist, and poet known for his wit and humor. He often used his writing to comment on society and human nature, and one of his most famous quotes is, "Why do they put the Gideon Bibles only in the bedrooms, where it's usually too late, and not in the barroom downstairs?"

This quote speaks to the idea that people often turn to religion or spirituality in times of crisis or desperation, rather than as a preventative measure. By placing Bibles in hotel rooms, where people may be feeling lonely, anxious, or vulnerable, the hope is that they will turn to the words of comfort and guidance found within the pages of the Bible. However, Morley's question suggests that perhaps it would be more effective to place Bibles in places where people are more likely to need guidance and support before they reach a crisis point.

The barroom downstairs is often a place where people go to socialize, unwind, and escape from their problems. It is a place where people may make decisions they later regret, or engage in behaviors that are harmful to themselves or others. By placing Bibles in the barroom, where people are more likely to be in need of moral guidance and spiritual support, perhaps they could be encouraged to make better choices and find solace in the teachings of the Bible before it is too late.

Morley's quote also raises questions about the role of religion in society and the ways in which it is presented to the public. By placing Bibles only in hotel rooms, where they may go unnoticed or ignored, are we missing an opportunity to reach people who may be in need of spiritual guidance? Should we be more proactive in sharing the message of the Bible in places where people are more likely to encounter it and benefit from its teachings?

Overall, Morley's quote challenges us to think about the ways in which we approach religion and spirituality, and to consider how we can make the message of the Bible more accessible and relevant to people in all aspects of their lives.