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Growing up means letting go of the dearest megalomaniacal dreams of our childhood. Growing up means knowing they can't be fulfilled. Growing up means gaining the wisdom and the skills to get what we want within the limitations imposed by reality - a reality which consists of diminished powers, restricted freedoms and, with the people we love, imperfect connections.
Judith Viorst
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Interpretation

What this quote means

Growing up involves the acceptance of reality and the limitations it imposes on our dreams and relationships.

Judith Viorst's quote reflects on the process of growing up, emphasizing that maturity comes with the understanding that many grand dreams from childhood may not be achievable. As we transition into adulthood, we recognize the limitations of our abilities and freedoms, and we learn to navigate our relationships, which may not always be perfect but carry their own value and meaning.

Themes

Growing UpWisdomRealityDreamsLimitationsRelationshipsAcceptance

In practice

Example use cases

During a graduation speech, a speaker might use this quote to highlight the transition from childhood ambitions to adult responsibilities.

More from Judith Viorst

Kids need to encounter kids like themselves - kids who can sometimes be crabby and fresh and rebellious, kids who talk back and disobey, tell fibs and get into trouble, and are nonetheless still likable and redeemable.
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Starting after 60, I thought, 'I'm not going to be able to write a book of poems on the 70s. It's going to be all moans and groans and complaints, and what is there to laugh about?' But I found plenty to laugh about.
Judith ViorstRead

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