From here on out, there's just reality. I think that's what maturity is: a stoic response to endless reality. But then, what do I know?
Interpretation
Maturity involves accepting the harshness of reality with a stoic attitude.
Carrie Fisher suggests that true maturity comes from recognizing and confronting reality without denial or escapism. This 'stoic response' implies resilience and acceptance, as one learns to navigate the complexities of life while given the inevitable challenges it presents, all while maintaining a sense of humility regarding one's understanding of life.
In practice
During a graduation speech to encourage students to face life head-on.
I trust myself. I trust my instincts. I know what I'm gonna do, what I can do, what I can't do. I've been through a lot, and I could go through more, but I hope I don't have to. But if I did, I'd be able to do it. I'm not going to enjoy dying, but there's not much prep for that.
Over time, I've paid attention, taken notes and forgotten easily half of everything I've gone through.
I went to a doctor and told him I felt normal on acid, that I was a light bulb in a world of moths. That is what the manic state is like.
There's a line I have that our family was designed more for public than for private. But there are definitely some things that are only mine. I am someone who dreams at night, and you don't know what I'm dreaming.
You know how most illnesses have symptoms you can recognize? Like fever, upset stomach, chills, whatever. Well, with manic depression, it's sexual promiscuity, excessive spending, and substance abuse - and that just sounds like a fantastic weekend in Vegas to me!
I am truly a product of Hollywood in-breeding. When two celebrities mate, someone like me is the result.
Type of the wise who soar but never roam, True to the kindred points of heaven and home.
And the attitude of faith is the very opposite of clinging to belief, of holding on.
The 'tide in the affairs of men' does not remain at the flood; it ebbs. We may cry out desperately for time to pause in her passage, but time is deaf to every plea and rushes on. Over the bleached bones and jumbled residue of numerous civilizations are written the pathetic words: 'Too late...'
We listen for guidance everywhere except from within.
Many (Christians) have zeal without knowledge, enthusiasm without enlightenment. In more modern jargon, they are keen but clueless.
I have always loved truth so passionately that I have often resorted to lying as a way of introducing it into the minds which were ignorant of its charms.
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