In her book "Small Victories," Anne Lamott suggests that there might have been an overlooked chapter in the Bible that dealt with healing from the harsh criticism experienced in the Garden of Eden. She argues that such a chapter would have emphasized our innate worthiness and acceptance in the world. Lamott expresses disbelief at the rare moments in Scripture that affirm God's delight in humanity, hinting that the overall biblical narrative tends to focus on darker themes like violence and exile instead.

Lamott's observation implies that perhaps the decision to highlight negativity over positivity was intended to toughen individuals rather than to encourage a sense of unconditional belonging. This perspective raises a thought-provoking dialogue about the balance between recognizing human flaws and celebrating moments of grace and acceptance. The omission of a chapter dedicated to recovery and welcome underscores the challenges we face in finding our place in a world filled with criticism and hardship.