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.
Judith ViorstRead
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.
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
All quotes →The need to become a separate self is as urgent as the yearning to merge forever. And as long as we, not our mother, initiate parting, and as long as our mother remains reliably there, it seems possible to risk, and even to revel in, standing alone.
Judith ViorstRead
Lust is what keeps you wanting to do it even when you have no desire to be with each other. Love is what makes you want to be with each other even when you have no desire to do it.
Judith ViorstRead
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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