The ingestion of brain-altering chemicals - legal or illegal - cannot be categorized as good stewardship of our earthly lives.

In this quote, Salvatore J. Cordileone makes a strong statement about the negative effects of consuming brain-altering chemicals, whether legal or illegal. By describing such behavior as incompatible with good stewardship of our earthly lives, he is emphasizing that the responsible and thoughtful care of our bodies and minds is essential to living in harmony with our environment. The idea of "stewardship" refers to the concept of responsibly managing and caring for something valuable, in this case, our own physical and mental health.

Cordileone’s assertion points out that the ingestion of substances that alter the brain’s natural functions, such as drugs or alcohol, can impair an individual’s ability to live a healthy, balanced life. Regardless of whether these substances are legally sanctioned or illicit, he argues that they should not be seen as a responsible way to handle the gift of life. In this context, good stewardship would involve making choices that protect the integrity of the body and mind, rather than harm them.

The origin of the quote can be traced to Cordileone's broader views on morality, health, and personal responsibility. As a Roman Catholic Archbishop, Cordileone often speaks on issues related to personal well-being and the importance of living a virtuous, self-disciplined life. His religious and ethical framework places a strong emphasis on making choices that contribute to both spiritual and physical well-being, aligning with traditional values that promote self-care and self-respect.

This quote also speaks to the larger societal discussion around substance use and its impact on health. It challenges individuals to think about the long-term effects of consuming substances that can alter their mental states and how such actions may affect not only their personal lives but also their relationships with others and their ability to contribute positively to society. Cordileone’s message calls for a return to responsible living, grounded in health, discipline, and a respect for the life we’ve been given.