When you meet a man in the doorway of a Mexican restaurant who later kisses you while explaining that this kiss doesnโt โmean anythingโ because, much as he likes you, he is not interested in having a relationship with you or anyone right now, just laugh and kiss him back. Your daughter will have his sense of humor. Your son will have his eyes.
Cheryl StrayedWhat if what made me do all those things everyone thought I shouldn't have done was what also had got me here? What if I was never redeemed? What if I already was?
Cheryl StrayedRun as far as you can in the direction of your best and happiest dreams across the bridge that was built by your own desire to heal.
Cheryl StrayedThere are so many things to be tortured about, sweet pea. So many torturous things in this life. Don't let the man who doesn't love you be one of them.
Cheryl StrayedOne Christmas at the very beginning of your twenties when your mother gives you a warm coat that she saved for months to buy, donโt look at her skeptically after she tells you she thought the coat was perfect for you. Donโt hold it up and say itโs longer than you like your coats to be and too puffy and possibly even too warm. Your mother will be dead by spring. That coat will be the last gift she gave you. You will regret the small thing you didnโt say for the rest of your life. Say thank you.
Cheryl StrayedYour assumptions about the lives of others are in direct relation to your naรฏve pomposity. Many people you believe to be rich are not rich. Many people you think have it easy worked hard for what they got. Many people who seem to be gliding right along have suffered and are suffering. Many people who appear to you to be old and stupidly saddled down with kids and cars and houses were once every bit as hip and pompous as you.
Cheryl Strayed