Why do we smile? Why do we laugh? Why do we feel alone? Why are we sad and confused? Why do we read poetry? Why do we cry when we see a painting? Why is there a riot in the heart when we love? Why do we feel shame? What is that thing in the pit of your stomach called desire?
Benjamin Alire SaenzFor a moment, I thought of the word happy and it was a word that just, well, it felt like it was visiting me. I knew it wouldnโt last for very long and Iโd be sad again and then it would be worse because itโs one thing to be sad and itโs another thing to be sad once youโve been happy. Being sad after youโve been happy is the worst thing in the world.
Benjamin Alire SaenzAbsent parents aren't abusive per se. They're neglectful. They love in a very imperfect way. There are parents like that, and they do love their daughters and sons, but they're not parents in the way that we might think of it.
Benjamin Alire Saenz