It is not we as individuals, then, who must bend uncomfortably around the institution of marriage; rather, it is the institution of marriage that has to bend uncomfortably around us.
Elizabeth GilbertIl bel far niente means 'the beauty of doing nothing'... [it] has always been a cherished Italian ideal. The beauty of doing nothing is the goal of all your work, the final accomplishment for which you are most highly congratulated. The more exquisitely and delightfully you can do nothing, the higher your life's achievement. You don't necessarily need to be rich in order to experience this, either.
Elizabeth GilbertA true soul mate is probably the most important person you'll ever meet, because they tear down your walls and smack you awake.
Elizabeth GilbertI am burdened with what the Buddhists call the 'monkey mind' -- the thoughts that swing from limb to limb, stopping only to scratch themselves, spit and howl.
Elizabeth GilbertThe whole sphere of air that surrounds us, Alma, is alive with invisible attractions โ electric, magnetic, fiery and thoughtful. There is a universal sympathy all around usโฆ When we cease all argument and debate โ both internal and external โ our true questions can be heard and answeredโฆThat is the gathering of magic.
Elizabeth Gilbert