Birds sing after a storm. Why shouldn't we?
I tell myself that God gave my children many gifts - spirit, beauty, intelligence, the capacity to make friends and to inspire respect. There was only one gift he held back - length of life.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects a mother's acknowledgment of the many gifts her children possess while lamenting the brevity of life.
In this quote, Rose Kennedy expresses a heartfelt sentiment about the gifts that her children possess, such as spirit, beauty, intelligence, and the ability to build friendships and command respect. However, she poignantly recognizes that despite these wonderful attributes, they are ultimately limited by the gift of life itself, which is finite. This reflects a deep understanding of both the blessings and limitations inherent in human existence.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech at a family reunion, this quote can remind everyone of the importance of cherishing family relationships.
More from Rose Kennedy
All quotes →Life isn't a matter of milestones, but of moments.
Birds sing after a storm; why shouldn't people feel as free to delight in whatever remains to them?
I would much rather be known as the mother of a great son than the author of a great book or the painter of a great masterpiece.
Birds sing after a storm; why shouldn't people feel as free to delight in whatever sunlight remains to them?
Similar quotes
I tell my children now that they are older, 'If something happens to me... don't make no big fuss over me. Don't make no big expense on my funeral. Don't put any pressure on the rest of the family. I've loved everybody, and I hope they loved me. But don't create this big expense for the family.'
Few things make the life of a parent more rewarding and sweet as successful children.
I've got two small kids. I want to make sure they grow up to be good people. Do they treat people well? Are they kind?
You transition as a mother from literally just pulling a booger out of that person's nose whenever you see one until at some point they assert: "No, I'm a person. You can't fix my underpants on the subway."
Is my mother my friend? I would have to say, first of all she is my Mother, with a capital 'M'; she's something sacred to me. I love her dearly...yes, she is also a good friend, someone I can talk openly with if I want to.
There is one day that is ours. Thanksgiving Day is the one day that is purely American.