I mind how I said to you once that there is a price for being good the same as for being bad; a cost to pay. And it's the good men that cant deny the bill when it comes around. They cant deny it for the reason that there aint any way to make them pay it, like a honest man that gambles. The bad men can deny it; that's why dont anybody expect them to pay on sight or any other time. But the good cant. Maybe it takes longer to pay for being good than for being bad.
The quote reflects on the moral complexities of good and bad actions, suggesting that being good comes with its own set of consequences. The speaker notes that good people cannot escape their obligations, facing the repercussions of their actions with integrity. In contrast, bad individuals can evade responsibility, as society does not hold them to the same standards. This discrepancy highlights a fundamental truth about morality: those who strive to be virtuous often endure a longer struggle to reconcile their choices, which emphasizes the burden that comes with goodness.
Faulkner's observation showcases the idea that while bad actions may offer immediate gratification or freedom from accountability, the lasting impact and eventual "cost" of goodness may manifest in more subtle and prolonged ways. The necessity to confront one's moral debt is a hallmark of integrity, indicating that true virtue involves facing the challenges that arise from one’s choices. This distinction underlines the complexities of ethical behavior, revealing that goodness often requires a deeper sacrifice and commitment.
