Overview of the Chapter
The chapter A Letter to God is a story written by G.L. Fuentes, highlighting themes of faith, human nature, and the irony of life. It revolves around a poor farmer named Lencho who writes a letter to God, seeking help after his crops are destroyed by a hailstorm. The story explores his unwavering faith and the unexpected response he receives.
Key Theme: The story emphasizes the power of faith and the unpredictability of human actions in the face of adversity.
Summary of the Story
Lencho, a hardworking farmer, eagerly waits for rain to nourish his cornfield. However, a sudden hailstorm destroys his entire crop, leaving him devastated. With deep faith in God, Lencho decides to write a letter requesting financial help. He addresses it simply to "God" and sends it to the post office.
The postmaster, amused yet touched by Lencho's innocence, decides to help him. He collects money from his employees and friends, though it is less than what Lencho had asked for. When Lencho receives the money, he is disappointed and writes another letter to God, expressing his dissatisfaction and accusing the post office employees of stealing part of it.
Irony: The postmaster and his colleagues act out of kindness, but Lencho's blind faith leads him to misinterpret their actions.
Characters in the Story
- Lencho: A poor farmer with unshakable faith in God.
- The Postmaster: A kind-hearted man who tries to help Lencho but becomes a victim of his misunderstanding.
- Post Office Employees: They contribute money to assist Lencho, showcasing human compassion.
Moral of the Story
The story illustrates how blind faith can sometimes lead to unrealistic expectations, while also highlighting the goodness in people who help others selflessly. It serves as a reflection on human nature and the complexities of belief.