For it is not light that is needed, but fire; it is not the gentle shower, but thunder. We need the storm, the whirlwind, and the earthquake. The feeling of the nation must be quickened; the conscience of the nation must be roused; the propriety of the nation must be startled; the hypocrisy of the nation must be exposed; and its crimes against God and man must be proclaimed and denounced.

Summary

This quote reflects the belief that superficial changes or gentle actions are insufficient to address the problems within a society. Instead, it argues that a radical and impactful transformation is necessary. The quote emphasizes the need for intense passion (fire) and disruption (storm, whirlwind, earthquake) to awaken the consciousness of the nation, challenge its false pretenses, and expose its injustices. It implies that a powerful and profound movement is essential to confront and denounce the nation's wrongdoings, both against humanity and their faith.