Relating to Conflict

So, King kindly reminded me that he had bought me a Christmas present, and that I should read it. Many Christians I know have read this already, but Miller brought up one argument that I'd like to share: the idea that we relate to different elements of stories, because we've experienced them. He goes to say,

Every good story has conflict in it. Some conflict is internal, some is external, but if you want to write a novel that sells, you have to have conflict. We understand conflict because we experience conflict, right? But where does conflict come from? Why do we experience conflict in our lives? This helped me a great deal in accepting the idea of original sin and the birth of conflict. The rebellion against God explained humans experienced conflict in their lives, and nobody knows any explanation other than this... (p.31-32)

I think the last statement's a little bold, but I didn't want to think too hard for a counter-example. If anyone has one, feel free to spit it out.

But yeah, I'm liking what I'm reading. One thing I constantly struggle with is the fact that I'm always, ALWAYS, thinking about myself. And I'm glad that he brings this up. "I am the problem," (p.21).

I rage against American materialism in the name of altruism, but have I even controlled my own heart? The overwhelming majority of time I spend thinking about myself, pleasing myself, reassuring myself, and when I am done there is nothing to spare for the needy. Six billion people live in this world, and I can only muster thoughts for one. Me. (p.22)

Yup, I love taking a stance on social justice issues; sexual exploitation, gay rights, fair trade, and so forth. But I'm a hypocrite. And really, what's in my heart right now is worry and jealousy of the success of my friends.