Its the most breathtakingly ironic things about living: the fact that we are all-identical twins included-alone. Singular. And yet what we seek-what saves us-is our connection to others.
But I think this: that whatever prices I've paid, whatever sorrows I shoulder, well, I have blessings, too. Not just my family now, but the others-the ones who have died...They're with me still. They're here...
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote reflects on the balance of grief and gratitude, recognizing both loss and the presence of blessings in one's life.
In this quote, Wally Lamb shares a poignant reflection on the interplay of sorrow and gratitude. He acknowledges the struggles and prices paid throughout life, yet he emphasizes that alongside these challenges, there are numerous blessings, particularly highlighting the enduring connection with loved ones who have passed away. Lamb suggests that the memories and experiences with these individuals continue to accompany him, affirming that while grief is a part of life, so too is the richness of cherished relationships.
Themes
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about overcoming personal challenges, one might refer to this quote to highlight the importance of recognizing blessings amid hardships.
More from Wally Lamb
All quotes →I thought about how love was always the thing that did that - smashed into you, left you raw. The deeper you loved, the deeper it hurt.
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I wanted to sing when I was little. That's what I liked doing. It didn't occur to me that you became famous or anything like that.
She spoke of evenings in the country making popcorn on the porch. Once this would have gladdened my heart but because her heart was not glad when she said it I knew there was nothing in it but the idea of what one should do.
Until-as often happened during those first months travel, whenever I would feel such happiness-my guilt alarm went off. I heard my ex-husband's voice speaking disdainfully in my ear: So this is what you gave up everything for? This is why you gutted our entire life together? For a few stalks of asparagus and an Italian newspaper? I replied aloud to him: "First of all," I said, "I'm very sorry, but this isn't your business anymore. And secondly, to answer you question...yes.
What can we do but keep on breathing in and out, modest and willing, and in our places?
The Master of Lifes been good to me. He has given me strength to face past illnesses, and victory in the face of defeat. He has given me life and joy where other saw oblivion. He Has given new purpose to live for, new services to render and old wounds to heal._x000D_ Life and love go on, let the music play.
Life is not a possession to be defended, but a gift to be shared.