Passionate investment leaves us vulnerable to loss. And sometimes, no matter how clever we are, we must lose.
Judith ViorstWe will have to give up the hope that, if we try hard, we somehow will always do right by our children. The connection is imperfect. We will sometimes do wrong.
Judith ViorstNo-fault guilt: This is when, instead of trying to figure out who's to blame, everyone pays.
Judith ViorstIf ambitious fantasies make people blush, and sexual fantasies make people blush and feel guilty, fantasies of violence and death may make people blush and feel guilty-and frightened too.
Judith ViorstOur early lessons in love and our developmental history shape the expectations we bring into marriage.
Judith ViorstGrowing 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